Dhobi Ghat seems to be a chaotic sight at first glance. On the other hand, a deeper examination reveals the order hidden inside the chaos. Many cleaned garments are hung out to dry in a way that requires the use of both time and space optimization techniques.
A system has been put in place to handle the washing, sorting, and ironing, a time-consuming procedure for the washermen (also known as dhobis). An identification number is printed on the back of each garment, allowing the correct item of laundry to be returned to its rightful owner.
This method is very effective and is one of the primary reasons for the ghat’s widespread appeal. Despite the presence of washing machines, 7,000 washermen work a total of 20 hours each day at the historic site. Dhobi Ghat, a Mumbai-based business, still generates Rs 100 crore yearly.
History of Dhobi Ghat
In 1890, when it was still a British imperial colony, 50 washerwomen formed the first commune. While specific changes have been made, Dhobi Ghat has remained true to its original appearance and purpose.
There are now around 700 dhobi families in the region, each of which regularly thrashes clothing on family-owned stones. While some dhobis have invested in modern mechanized washing and drying systems, most dhobis still wash their clothing on platforms and troughs constructed during India’s British colonial period to earn a livelihood.
The dhobi ghat in Mumbai (formerly Bombay) was very useful and successful in streamlining the process. The British were inspired by and determined to construct another functioning dhobi ghat in India, so they set to work. Finally, 1902, a second Dhobi Ghat was established in Kolkata, which began operations in 1903. (Then Calcutta).
Present Day
More than 800 households are accommodated on two levels of the chawl system in this area. Despite the rapid development in India, these folks continue to wash their clothing in the same manner they have done for centuries. They use flogging stones, brush caustic soda, and water to get their punishment.
It is possible to make between 300 and 500 rupees a day as an ordinary worker here, with a daily maximum of roughly 800 rupees. Every solitary stone is in the possession of a small number of families. On 731 stones, the lives of 4 to 5 thousand people are hanging in the balance. If these Dhobis allow technology to educate them, one may see machines here that do the washing and drying for them on their initiative.
Best Time to Visit Dhobi Ghat
The best time to visit Dhobi Ghat Mumbai is between October and March. The weather is pleasant, and there is little chance of rain interfering with your plans.
Watch the dhobis whip the clothes in their cubicles if you go early enough. Dhobi Ghat’s hanging wires are jam-packed with clothes drying in the sun by lunchtime and early afternoon.
How to Reach Dhobi Ghat
The journey to Dhobi Ghat is straightforward; all that is required is to take a Mumbai Local train to Mahalaxmi station on the Western line. Go to the Saat rasta, which will bring you to the Dhobi Ghat. You may either walk to the ghat or hire an auto-rickshaw to take you there for a few minutes.
Facts about Dhobi Ghat
- There are about 5000 dhobis that labor here 24 hours a day, washing and crisping soiled clothing.
- Dhobi Ghat includes more than 700 handwashing stations where people may wash their clothes by themselves.
- Once, 496 dhobis cleaned clothing simultaneously, earning Dhobi Ghat a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as the site with the “highest number of persons hand-washing garments simultaneously.”
- The washers get a steady stream of business from nearby hotels, hospitals, and interior designers. Clothes from garment makers are also sent to this laundry.
- This location has been used for several Hindi and Marathi films, including Munnabhai MBBS, Shootout at Wadala, and Dhobi Ghat (also known as Mumbai Diaries).
Nearby attractions
Nehru Science Centre
The Nehru Science Centre in Worli, Mumbai, opened in 1977 as a museum devoted to science and technology. The “Light and Sight” display was the center’s first exhibit when it opened in 1977. A scientific park was eventually constructed nearby in 1979. The Nehru Science Centre in New Delhi, India, was inaugurated by Rajiv Gandhi, India’s Prime Minister, in November 1985.
Haji Ali
Haji Ali Dargah, one of Islam’s most revered shrines, is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture. At the Haji Ali Dargah, the mortal remains of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a 15th-century Sufi saint, are interred. The site is renowned for its mesmerizing position, architectural beauty, and religious importance. The mosque seems like an imagined universe floating in the water when set against the stunning Arabian Sea background.
St. Ignatius Church
Founded by the Jesus Society, St. Ignatius Church is managed by them. This Roman Catholic church, located near Dhobi Ghat, is a tranquil spot to visit
Mahalaxmi Racecourse
The Mahalaxmi Racecourse is about 2,400 meters in length and spreads over 225 acres of land facing the sea originally It was donated by Sir Cusrow N Wadia in 1883
Mumbai Zoo
Located in the Byculla area of Mumbai, the official name of the zoo is Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan. It is Mumbai’s sole zoo and one of India’s oldest. Established in 1861, the zoo is home to many different species of birds and animals, including penguins.
Sai Siddhi Mandir
Located in a prominent location, the Sai Siddhi Mandir is revered by both residents and visitors alike. Here, the deity of Siddhi Vinayak is housed, and many people come to seek his blessings.
Royal Western India Turf Club
The Mahalaxmi racetrack is managed by the Royal Western India Turf Club, which is an elite Indian sports facility that is open to the public.
Mahalaxmi Temple
One of the most peaceful places in the area, and the ideal time to visit is during the evening aarti when the saints recite the mantras of Goddess Mahalaxmi.
