Rajendra Kalkar, Senior Centre Director, High Street Phoenix, talks about how Lower Parel has changed its persona over time
Hailing from the conservative city of Ahmedabad, these five years spent in Mumbai have been like a journey filled with emotions, challenges and stories. Lower Parel, the epicentre of this journey, deserves applause as one of the most evolved neighbourhoods of the city. From low-rise, defunct mills to sprawling, world-class infrastructure, over the course of half a decade it has been a noteworthy effort.
Over the past five years, Lower Parel has seen a rise in the number of young visitors and international brands, better accessibility, cleaner environment and some of the most remarkable structures in the city. As someone who resides and works in Lower Parel, my lifestyle has been subject to the best opportunities available here. Enjoying a platter full of classic sea-food delicacies at Jai Hind to lip-smacking Sikandari Raan Masala at Punjab Grill (located inside High Street Phoenix), Lower Parel has lately become the hub of all things edible. You may notice a number of brands like Maroosh, California Pizza Kitchen, Asilo, The Sahib Room, Mekong and Copper Chimney along with local ones like Trupti Snacks, Tibbs, Delhi Darbar and more. From vada pav to macaroons, you get it all within this one-km stretch.
With residential developments and better accessibility, there is a huge opportunity to connect and celebrate with various communities. I enjoy cultural activities here; Lower Parel has a quaint set-up for such indulgences. Ganesh Chaturthi, Dahi Handi and Konkan Fest are some of the most awaited celebrations that I have been a part of in the last few years.
Additionally, the ALM communities have been quite active with the beautification and betterment of Lower Parel. Current projects include a cleaning campaign at DC Road and SB Marg along with organising medical camps on a regular basis at the local park for underprivileged residents of the neighbourhood.
Having once resided in the concrete jungle of Gurgaon, I rejoice the traditional retreats that Mumbai provides. Lower Parel offers exciting scenic views of old mill structures, sea views and bakeries. Commercially speaking, Kamala Mills, Phoenix Mills, the World Towers built on Shrinivas Mill, Peninsula Corporate Park, Palladium Hotel, Marathon Futurex, Sun Mills Compound and Raghuvanshi Mills have all added to the work environment, growth and accessibility of this neighbourhood.
Reverberating with an international vibe, Lower Parel has been one of the most promising and comfortable homes I've found from my relocation to Mumbai.
—As told to Tavasya Agarwal
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