A series of 10 lectures and walkthroughs dive into the diversity of cultures and religion that shape the nature of belief in the metropolis
The Mahakali Caves will be among the sites covered during the sessions. File Pic/Nimesh Dave; Wikimedia Commons
While the city is preparing for one of its largest festive celebrations, The Asiatic Society of Mumbai’s new series of lectures will explore the diversity of religious spaces in the crowded metropolis of Mumbai. Titled The Geography of Belief, the series features a combination of 10 sessions and walks that explore the colourful tapestry of religion that inhabit Mumbai’s spaces.
The Shaar Harahamim Synagogue
“Each lecture is associated with a particular walk that explores the city’s religious spaces. We are looking at eight mainstream religions, one indigenous and also, the street itself as a sacred space,” shared Dr Shehernaz Nalwalla, vice-president, The Asiatic Society of Mumbai.
The experience is an extension of a concept that began during the 2020 pandemic. “This time, we thought that it would be interesting to use the talk as a springboard to invite people to visit these spaces,” she adds. Many of these spaces become centres for communities that contribute to the neighbourhood.
Dr Shehernaz Nalwalla
Among the locations to be highlighted are the Buddhist spaces of Mahakali Caves, the Jain temple at Fort Derasar, Bhuleshwar, and the forms of indigenous worship at Aarey Colony. Citing the example of the Shaar Harahamim Synagogue, Nalwalla states, “People pass through these structures without any awareness of the religion or its nature. For instance, many would not know how and what to do in a synagogue.” The experience might be a step to reduce the growing distances among people.
FROM August 5 to September 7
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