To understand the life of the Maximum City, Mumbai, one should know the history of Bombay (as it was known before 1995). We consider Mumbai as an epitome of capitalism in India. But, it witnessed a huge uproar from labour unions during the 70s and 80s. Socialism, represented by labour unionization was crushed by the governments and capitalists resulting in a mass unemployment. In a way, the name change was associated with this change in the economic system. And this saga is incomplete without recounting the contribution of textile mills. Located at the centre of the island city, Lalbaug-Parel was the livelihood for mill workers. Known as ‘Manchester of the East’ then, Mumbai started exporting textiles after 1854. Exports boomed & Bombay’s economy and urban fabric changed dramatically. From 13 mills in 1870 to 83 in 1915, the growth of textile mills also paved way for banks, insurance companies and reclamation companies in the city. Gradually, Bombay replaced Calcutta to become the financial centre of India. End of American Civil War, World War II and intense competition from Japan stagnated exports and resulted in winding off of several mills. Only 53 survived by 1953. Increasing pressure from corporates for redevelopment and rising costs made it difficult for mill owners to run the business. Mill workers demanded higher wages and bonuses which led to ‘The Great Bombay Textile Strike’ as it is called now. In 1982, around 2.5 lakh workers went on strike and almost all mills closed their businesses permanently.
Today, those mills are getting redeveloped into commercial spaces setting up a new skyline for the city. It is home to many realty businesses like Indiabulls and Lodha accommodating many consulting, financial services and media firms. Areas near Parel, Elphinstone Road, Currey Road and Lower Parel stations still reminisce the era of the 80s. During my daily commute, I see a lady selling grass and fodder and a cow is literally parked nearby. To my surprise, people buy it from her and feed the cow. We can also see people selling food from their homes, shops and roadside stalls. Right from mobile phone covers and barber shops to electrical equipment and general stores, the informal economy sprawls across lanes and roads. The poverty gets reflected through their emotions, actions and state of living. Chawls, MHADA buildings and informal economy on one side, while high rises, corporate parks and extremely sophisticated economy on the other thrive together these days. As builders continue to redesign the urban landscape of the area, the struggle and ideas of the past will fade away some day. In our busy routines, we must not ignore and belittle their lives and spaces. The strike not only affected their lives but also ours. It opened new chapters for Mumbai, especially Lalbaug-Parel, which continues to feed Mumbaikars.
– Swapnil Karkare
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