Artists visiting Matoshree Meenatai Thackeray Shilpgram Garden in Jogeshwari East may soon benefit from on-site accommodation and essential amenities, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) planning to invest Rs 3.58 crore in the project.
The civic body’s Gardens Department has started the tendering process to develop lodging facilities, a kitchen, a dining hall and toilets in the Thackeray-Shirswad section of the garden. The initiative is intended to offer reasonably priced accommodation to artists travelling from different parts of Maharashtra to participate in cultural programmes and events at the venue.
With Mumbai’s hotel costs often proving expensive for visiting performers and artists, the proposed facilities are expected to provide a more accessible alternative. The planned infrastructure will include residential spaces, a kitchen for meal preparation, a dedicated dining area and toilet facilities. These amenities are also expected to support food arrangements during events and meet the needs of staff working at the garden.
According to a Gardens Department official, accommodation will be provided on a paid basis, with charges determined by the prescribed rates and the length of each artist’s stay.
The BMC has begun the tender process and will appoint a suitable contractor to carry out the construction and renovation work, the official added.
Spread across approximately 55,000 square metres, Matoshree Meenatai Thackeray Shilpgram Garden celebrates the cultural traditions of Maharashtra and India. The site features sculptures representing the traditional homes and occupations of the Bara Balutedar community, alongside displays highlighting indigenous games, folk dances and other cultural practices.
Beyond its cultural exhibits, the garden offers several recreational attractions for visitors. Its landscaped grounds feature lawns, trees, creepers and shrubs, while a musical fountain provides choreographed water displays. Walking tracks connect different sections of the garden, and gazebos and seating areas offer places to relax. A dedicated play area also caters to children.
The proposed investment is expected to strengthen the venue’s infrastructure and make it more convenient for artists participating in cultural events, while supporting the garden’s role as a space for showcasing Maharashtra’s heritage.
Source: The Free Press Journal
