Path to Nirvana

‘Urban gardens’ are a plethora of socio-cultural, historical and environmental learning, that allows varied observant assert the sense of ‘the right to the city’ or reclaim an ‘urban commons’. One such urban garden uniquely hanging upon a historical water reservoir on Malabar Hill has been a source of solace and wonder for locals. Designed by Ulhas Ghapokar in 1881 and dedicated to Sir Pherozshah Mehta, it is narrated to have been built over one of Bombay’s main water reservoir to protect it from getting polluted, particularly by the nearby towers of silence. The photovoice method chosen here for representation would showcase how a diverse group of visitors or locals see their interests towards fostering ‘civic ecological sense’ and ‘social associations’ with the flora-fauna and history in the city. This could aim in conceptualizing future sustainable measures flexibly, placing ideas related to social associations, heritage and ecological concerns.

An inclusive 'space', attracts more people, interaction occurs, activity lasts making it a vibrant 'place' through which a city breathes. Artwork is a public place promenade in Mumbai representing people's cognitive expressions, behavioral and sensorial patterns offering city uniqueness, identity and a sense of 'place'. Our cities are built for their people and the experience such public spaces imprint in our minds lasts forever. There are memories of socio-cultural exchanges and associations that strengthen our nostalgic senses as we revisit such 'places'. We can never imagine a 'place' without its people.