Ruttonsee Mujee Fountain

Have you ever been to Mumbai? Well, in the bustling heart of South Mumbai stands the Ruttonsee Muljee Fountain. This isn’t just any fountain, mind you. It is a poignant tribute to a son tragically lost. Ruttonsee Muljee, a successful cotton merchant, erected this architectural masterpiece in 1894 in remembrance of his beloved son Dharamsee, who passed away at the tender age of 15. On top of the fountain, you’ll see a statue of Dharamsee, forever holding a book, a testament to his love of reading. The Ruttonsee Muljee Fountain is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a blend of Indian and Islamic styles. It was designed by the renowned architect Frederick William Stevens, the man behind the iconic Victoria Terminus, along with John Griffiths, the principal of the Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy School of Art. The fountain is adorned with intricate carvings and features elephant heads as corbels, emphasizing the blend of architectural styles. For many years, the Ruttonsee Muljee Fountain fell into disrepair. But, in 2017, thanks to the Kala Ghoda Association, it was meticulously restored, bringing back its former glory. Today, you can still see the water flowing from its spouts, just like it did decades ago. The water symbolizes life, and the Ruttonsee Muljee Fountain is a reminder that even in the midst of a bustling city, there are pockets of peace and remembrance, reminding us of the power of love and enduring legacies.