“King who?” a child once asked. The place now known as Maheshwari Udyan was once called King’s Circle. It got its regal name from George V, the King-Emperor.
King’s Circle is more than just a garden. It is a vibrant hub. It sits perfectly between Khodadad Circle and Sion Circle. King’s Circle is at the heart of Matunga.
Once, this area was called King’s Way. This was to honor George V. In the early 1900s, the Improvement Trust made big plans. They wanted to develop Dadar, Matunga, and Sion. The goal was to create organized spaces in the central suburbs.
The Great Indian Peninsula Railway’s harbour branch arrived in 1925. The Tramway Company extended lines to Dadar-Matunga. This made King’s Circle a well-connected area. By the 1930s, properties were being leased and buildings were going up.
King’s Circle is next to King’s Circle station. Matunga railway station is also close. You can easily switch between the Harbour and Central lines here.
Morarji Desai, a Union Finance Minister, marked a change in 1962. He laid the foundation stone to rename King’s Circle. It then became Maheshwari Udyan.
Close to King’s Circle is a very old school. It is the South Indian Education Society High School. King’s Circle connects Koliwada, Wadala, Sion, Dadar, and C.G.S. Colony. Its central spot makes it valuable for real estate and businesses. Prices here are high.
Back then, Matunga and Sion were like the end of the road. Beyond them lay marshy land not fit for living. South Mumbai was where all the building happened. Land was taken from the sea to create building sites.
Maheshwari Udyan sits on a road that leads to Thane Depot. From this garden, you can walk to Matunga’s western part. Locals use a small lane and footbridge. They call it Monkey Bridge. It links Matunga East and West.
Once, many South Indian communities lived here. Now, more Gujarati, Kutchi, and Jain people want to live near their derasars.
King’s Circle continues to evolve. The Asthika Samaj still thrives. It is a center for religious and cultural life. People believe its banyan tree can grant wishes. Tucked away behind Laxmi Lodge is the Hanuman Mandir. It is over a hundred years old.
You can still find famous Udipi cafes here. These represent South India’s flavorful side.
King’s Circle has seen many changes. Yet, it holds onto its history. It remains a vital and bustling part of Mumbai. So, next time you’re here, remember its story. King’s Circle is more than just a name. It is a piece of Mumbai’s past and present.