Restoration of a 150 year old temple

Restoring Faith

The temple in its dense surroundings next to Andheri Market and the metro line.

Restoration of a 150-Year-Old Temple — Andheri, Mumbai

Location: Andheri, Mumbai

Tucked in the dense fabric of Andheri, this modest temple complex—home to shrines of Lord Hanuman, Shiva, and Rama—dates back to the 1850s. Built incrementally over generations, the structure had grown organically, resulting in a mix of materials, forms, and levels.

The restoration was prompted by a sudden roof collapse, but its intent went beyond repair. The project became an opportunity to celebrate the layered history of the space, while respectfully reorganizing and stabilizing it for continued use.

Material reuse was prioritized—brick, wood, and stone were carefully salvaged, while newer elements were introduced to match the spirit of the original. Careful attention was paid to the transitions between old and new, so the building reads not as a replica, but as a continued story.

This was not just conservation—it was a quiet act of care, to allow a place of devotion to live on.

Sabha Mandapa
Before the start of restoration work
During restoration work
After restoration
Garbha Griha
Garbha Griha before restoration
During restoration
After restoration
Some details observed on site
Layers of colours over many years of repairs and repainting
The sculpture on the amalaka was revealed by carefully removing layers of plaster.
Archival images of the temple, captured before the surrounding market, metro line, and newer infrastructure reshaped its context.
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