Flora Fountain and Hutatma Chowk

Standing beside a bustling road is a landmark that has witnessed the evolution of the city for over a century. Its story begins in 1864, when the British unveiled an ornate stone fountain crowned with the Roman goddess Flora. The fountain became a symbol of Victorian Bombay’s civic pride and growing commercial strength.

This vision in white has also witnessed sombre times. In 1960, during the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, protestors gathered in the square. Police opened fire and claimed the lives of 105 demonstrators demanding a Marathi-speaking state. The tragedy left an indelible mark on the square. It was renamed Hutatma Chowk, and a memorial of torch-bearing figures was installed to honour the martyrs.

The fountain and memorial now stand side by side. Together, they reflect Mumbai’s colonial past, political struggle, and enduring quest for identity.