Mogan Rodrigues (40) has lived in Uttan since his birth. On September 22, Rodrigues, an East Indian, will lead a group of city explorers through Dharavi Island, one of the last bastions of his community. Not to be confused with the neighbourhood in Sion, Dharavi Island is the one that comprises six villages in north-western Mumbai—Dongri, Uttan, Pali, Chowk, Gorai and Manori. It is also home to a large East Indian community.

Who are the East Indians?

The East Indians are considered the original residents of the city, with roots in the Isle of Bombay, Thana, Salsette and Bassein (present-day Vasai). Some of the earliest records of the East Indians date back to the 15th and 16th centuries when Portuguese missionaries converted members of local farming, fishing and salt-making communities to Roman Catholicism. Rodrigues, who’s also a licensed tourist guide with the Ministry of Tourism, is the local expert for Swadesee, a travel company organising the Dharavi Island walk.