Portrait of a dynamic Mumbai neighbourhood

The noted author, columnist, translator, cultural critic, and theatre historian Shanta Gokhale, has released her newest book Shivaji Park:Dadar 28: History, Places, People. Gokhale’s book, set in the neighbourhood of the same name, traces the history of Shivaji Park with detailed accounts of the events and of the personalities that shaped it. In an interview with MAIL TODAY, she explains her process in writing the book, and some of Shivaji Park’s significant events.

Q) What led you to write this book, and to set it in this neighbourhood?

The idea came from Ravi Singh of Speaking Tiger. They had planned a series of monographs on neighbourhoods. The minute he mentioned the idea, however, it became mine. I have lived in this neighbourhood and occupied the same rented flat for practically the whole of my life. I have seen the place grow and change and loved it still. When people remark on its peace and beauty I glow with pride as though I were its creator. I am particularly happy when visitors to our flat comment on its unusual design and charm, all part of the old Art Deco style of curves and spacious balconies. To have a chance to write about Shivaji Park was an unlooked for gift that I grabbed with both hands.

Q) What do you think are some of the most defining moments in the history of Shivaji Park?

What defines Shivaji Park is the concept behind its creation itself, as a precinct for healthy living. It is the nursery of cricket and mallakhamb. It has been at the centre of politics from the Independence struggle to the present. The earliest political ralliesin the park were held during the Quit India movement in the ’40s. Then came the mammoth meetings of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement in the late ’50s. Finally the foundation day meeting of the Shiv Sena in 1966 followed by its annual Dassera rallies. Since the mid-80s the park has been host to lakhs of dalits from all over the country who gather here every year on December 6, Dr B R Ambedkar's death anniversary, to pay their respects at the Chaityabhoomi on Dadar Chowpatty.

Q) Is there any particular event that stands out?

One defining moment which I had to leave out of the book because of the word limit was Kasturba Gandhi addressing a meeting in Shivaji Park on August 9, 1942. Gandhi had given the Quit India call at Gowalia Tank (now August Kranti Maidan) the previous evening. He was to address a rally at Shivaji Park the following evening. But he was arrested that morning. A huge crowd had gathered at the park to hear him. What was to be done? Kasturba Gandhi offered to speak in his place. She had never spoken in public before and the organisers were justifiably nervous about her ability to hold the crowd. But she had Sushila Nayyar beside her for moral support and she went ahead despite a policeman warning her that she would be arrested. Her speech had a special message for women. She asked them to join the Quit India movement because their contribution to the cause would be as important as men's. While she was addressing the crowd, she and Sushila Nayyar were arrested and taken to Arthur Road jail.

Q) Would you call this book as a biography or a local history?

Both sound formidably formal. I'd be happier calling it the Shivaji Park story.