Bombay’s Iconic Rajabai Clock Tower British Era, 1890 Photo
An 1890 photocrom or color photograph of Bombay’s iconic Rajabai Clock Tower during the British era. A crowd of local people seems to be standing around curiously, probably for the photo session. Bombay’s iconic silent sentinel, at one time, the tower could be viewed from miles away. With its four-sided clocks, it kept a watch over the city.
It was the most viewed tower, but it eventually got obscured because of the ever-sprouting taller buildings of Bombay. It was one of the finest colonial-era structures of the city, complete with a beautiful garden. The Library with the Rajabai Clock Tower and the Convocation Hall were both designed by British architect Sir Gilbert Scott. The construction was completed by 1878.
The grand Convocation Hall was built with handsome donation from Sir Cowasji Jehangir. And Premchand Roychand funded the Library and the 280-foot Rajabai Clock Tower. At one time, he was the richest man in Bombay during the 19th century. The tower was named after Roychand’s mother, Rajabai. Click on the photo to enlarge.
Did you know – Muncherjee Mezban designed the beautiful garden complex, which had some beautiful trees and statues.
Past posts – Vintage Raja Ravi Varma “Shivaji” Oleograph Print., Interior Of Tanjore Palace, 1890 Postcard., Display Of Adoration To King-Emperor In Delhi Durbar, 1912 Print., Motor Cars In British India Era, Old PC 1949.
