Restoration and Upgradation of the Convocation Hall, University of Mumbai
Established in 1857, the University of Mumbai stands as one of India’s oldest and most prestigious centres of learning. With 56 departments, 12 specialised centres, 914 affiliated colleges, two main campuses, two sub-campuses, two model colleges, and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Kalyan, the University caters to more than 8 lakh students each year. It holds an ‘A++’ NAAC accreditation, was awarded Category-1 University status by the UGC in 2023, and ranks 17th in India and 664th globally. The University is also at the forefront of implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
A Heritage Legacy
The University’s main campus is home to three iconic Grade-I heritage structures—the Rajabai Clock Tower, the University Library, and the Sir Cowasji Jehangir Convocation Hall. Together, these Neo-Gothic architectural masterpieces form part of the Victorian and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2018.
Completed in 1874, the Convocation Hall was built through a generous donation of Rs. 1 lakh from Sir Cowasji Jehangir. In 2006, the Hall underwent its first major restoration supported by the Government of Maharashtra, Jamsetji Tata Trust and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Heritage Conservation Society. The work was undertaken by conservation architect Abha Narain Lambah. This project subsequently received UNESCO’s Asia-Pacific Award of Distinction for heritage conservation.
The Need for Renewal
Nearly two decades since the last restoration, the Sir Cowasji Jehangir Convocation Hall is once again in need of structural repairs and infrastructure upgrades. Time, usage, and environmental factors have impacted the building’s fabric, necessitating careful conservation and modernisation to ensure its continued use as a ceremonial, academic, and cultural landmark.
Advancing the Tata Trusts’ commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage, the Tata Trusts are supporting the University of Mumbai in its endeavour to undertake a comprehensive restoration and upgradation of this historic landmark for future generations. The project will focus on:
- Conserving and structurally stabilising the heritage building while preserving its original Neo-Gothic character
- Restoring deteriorated architectural and interior elements using best-practice conservation techniques
- Upgrading essential services and infrastructure—including lighting, acoustics, seating, and safety systems—to meet contemporary academic and ceremonial needs
- Enhancing long-term sustainability and accessibility without compromising the building’s historic integrity
The restoration will once again be led by Abha Narain Lambah & Associates, renowned for their expertise in heritage conservation.
Press Release: The Tata Trusts and University of Mumbai join hands to restore the iconic Sir Cowasji Jehangir Convocation Hall
