The project, developed using Satam’s development funds, is dedicated to freedom fighter and lawyer Kaka Joseph Baptista, who defended Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Veer Savarkar during India’s freedom struggle

Speaking at the event, Satam said the East Indian community is one of Mumbai’s indigenous communities with a rich and distinct cultural identity

He said the Bhavan has been named after Kaka Joseph Baptista in honour of his contribution to the freedom movement. Satam also said Baptista was credited with coining the famous slogan, “Swaraj is my birthright”

The newly inaugurated complex includes an East Indian Museum showcasing the community’s history and culture, a landscaped public garden, a children’s play area, a skill development centre for youth, a pavilion for social and family gatherings and a statue of Kaka Joseph Baptista

Satam said the project aims to preserve and promote the heritage of the East Indian community while also providing modern facilities for local residents

“The garden and Bhavan have been dedicated to a great revolutionary who played an important role in India’s freedom struggle,” Satam said