# Mahalaxmi, Mumbai

Mahalaxmi is an upscale, affluent neighborhood in the city of Mumbai, India. is particularly well-known for housing the majestic Mahalaxmi Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess of wealth and fortune. It is known for Royal Western India Turf Club’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse with horse races every year having visitors from around the world. It Magnificent views can be had of Malabar Hill and the Arabian Sea, two well-known locations.

## Geography and Location

Mahalaxmi is strategically located in South Mumbai, bordered by Worli to the south, Lower Parel to the north, and the Arabian Sea to the west. The area is well-connected by road and rail, making it a key transit point in the city.

## History

Mahalaxmi Temple is one of the most famous temples in Mumbai. Built around 1785, the history of this temple is supposedly connected with the building of the Hornby Vellard. Supposedly, after portions of the sea-wall of the Vellard collapsed twice, the chief engineer, a Pathare Prabhu, dreamed of a Lakshmi statue in the sea near Worli. An underwater search recovered it and he subsequently constructed a temple for it. After this, the work on the Vellard was completed without any problems.
Mahalaxmi is also home to the Mahalaxmi Racecourse.

## Notable Landmarks
### Mahalaxmi Temple

One of Mumbai’s most revered religious sites, the Mahalaxmi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. It attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Navratri and Diwali.

### Mahalaxmi Racecourse

Established in 1883, the Mahalaxmi Racecourse is one of India’s premier horse racing tracks, operated by the Royal Western India Turf Club. The racecourse is a landmark in Mumbai’s elite sporting culture and also serves as a recreational space for residents.

### Haji Ali Dargah

Located on an islet off the coast of Mahalaxmi, the Haji Ali Dargah is a revered Sufi shrine visited by people of all faiths. The structure, built in Indo-Islamic architectural style, is accessible via a causeway during low tide.

### Dhobi Ghat

The Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat is Mumbai’s largest open-air laundry, where hundreds of washers (dhobis) manually clean clothes in large concrete washing pens. It has become a popular tourist attraction showcasing Mumbai’s traditional laundry system.

### Jijamata Udyan (Byculla Zoo)

Although located near Mahalaxmi, Jijamata Udyan is one of Mumbai’s oldest zoos and botanical gardens. It houses various animal species and is a favorite among families and children.

## Economy and Development

Mahalaxmi has witnessed rapid urbanization and commercial development. It is home to numerous high-end residential towers, corporate offices, and retail centers. The High Street Phoenix Mall, located nearby, is one of Mumbai’s largest shopping destinations.

## Transportation

Mahalaxmi is well connected via multiple modes of transport:
* Railways: The Mahalaxmi Railway Station on the Western Line provides easy access to other parts of Mumbai.
* Roadways: Key roads like Mahalaxmi Bridge, Dr. E. Moses Road, Dharamveer Swarajya Rakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Coastal Road, and Annie Besant Road connect the neighborhood to South and Central Mumbai.
* Metro: The upcoming Mumbai Metro Line 3 is expected to enhance connectivity in the area with the Science Museum and the Mahalakshmi Metro station.
* Monorail: The neighborhood is well connected by the Sant Ghadge Maharaj Chowk Monorail Station.
* Public Transport: BEST buses and taxis provide convenient commuting options.