# Worli

Worli (ISO: Varaḷī,) is a locality in central Mumbai in Maharashtra, India. It is one of the four peninsulas of Mumbai with the others being Colaba, Bandra and Malabar Hill. The sea connects it with Vandre via the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. Historic spellings include Warli, Worlee, Varli, and Varel. Originally Worli was a separate island, one of the Seven Islands of Bombay which were ceded by the Portuguese to England in 1661; it was linked up with the other islands in the 19th century.
In the 1990s, a group of terrorists attacked a building in Worli as well as major buildings in the city.

## Geography and Location

Worli is located along the western coastline of Mumbai, bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west, Lower Parel to the east, Prabhadevi to the north, and Haji Ali to the south. The neighborhood enjoys a prime location and excellent connectivity via major roads and railway lines.

## History

Worli has a rich history that dates back to the time of the seven islands of Bombay. It was originally a fishing village inhabited by the Koli community. During British rule, Worli underwent significant urbanization and became an important part of Mumbai’s development. The construction of major infrastructure projects, including the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, further boosted its importance in the city's landscape. The mumbai police and BPT set up their quarters near Worli seaface in the 1970s.

## Culture and Heritage

Worli is known for its cultural and historical significance. Key highlights include:
* Worli Fort: A 17th-century fort built by the British to guard against invasions.
* Worli Koliwada: A traditional fishing village that still preserves the lifestyle and customs of Mumbai’s indigenous Koli community.
* Religious Sites: The neighborhood houses several temples, churches, and mosques, reflecting Mumbai’s diverse cultural fabric.

## Notable Landmarks
### Bandra-Worli Sea Link

A landmark cable-stayed bridge that connects Worli to Bandra, reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity between South Mumbai and the western suburbs.

### Worli Fort

Built by the British in the 17th century, Worli Fort is an important historical monument that overlooks the Arabian Sea.

### Worli Sea Face

A popular promenade offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea, making it a favored spot for morning joggers and evening strolls.

## Economy and Commercial Importance

Worli has evolved into a major commercial hub, with numerous multinational corporations, financial institutions, and high-end retail establishments. Several prominent business centers and luxury residential projects, such as the Lodha World Towers, have further transformed the skyline of the area.

## Transportation

Worli is well-connected by various modes of transportation:

### Roadways:

The area is accessible via key roads such as:
* Vandre Worli Sealink
* Mumbai Coastal Road
* Annie Besant Road
* E. Moses Road
* Senapati Bapat Rd.
It will soon be connected by the Trans harbor -Coastal road connector.

### Railways:

The closest railway stations are Lower Parel and Mahalaxmi on the Western Line.

### Metro:

* The upcoming Worli and Acharya Atre Chowk Metro stations on the Aqua Line.

### Bus:

It is well connected by the BEST bus service and a depot near Worli Naka, called Worli Agar.

## Education and Institutions

Worli is home to several reputed educational institutions, including:
* Podar International School
* DY Patil International School
* National Sports Club of India (NSCI), which also serves as a sporting and cultural venue.
* Brihanmumbai Mahanagarpalika Worli Seaface Shala (school)

## Demographics

Worli has a diverse population, comprising business professionals, expatriates, and local communities. The area has seen rapid urbanization, with luxury apartments replacing old settlements, though some traditional communities such as the Kolis still reside in the Worli Koliwada.

## Challenges and Redevelopment

Like many parts of Mumbai, Worli faces challenges such as traffic congestion and infrastructure strain due to rapid urban development. Several redevelopment projects are underway to modernize the neighborhood while preserving its cultural heritage.

## Politics

In October 2019, Aaditya Thackeray contested the 2019 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly election from the Worli constituency and he is currently the MLA of Worli.

## Celebrities who Reside in Worli

Famous Indian celebrities as well as celebrity couples reside in the Worli area of Mumbai:
* Shahid Kapoor
* Rohit Sharma
* Yuvraj Singh
* Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma
* Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza
* Madhuri Dixit