The original church was destroyed by Arab pirates in 1738, who reportedly cut off the right hand of the statue, mistaking it for gold.
The statue of the Virgin Mary is believed by devotees to have been rescued from the sea by local Koli fishermen after the pirate raid.
The church architecture features intricate stained-glass windows and vaulted ceilings typical of the 20th-century Neo-Gothic revival.
The statue of the Virgin Mary is occasionally dressed in different silk robes and jewels depending on the liturgical season.
The Bandra Fair draws millions of visitors annually, transforming the surrounding streets into a massive cultural bazaar.
The basilica's elevated location provides a vantage point that was historically used for maritime observation.
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, commonly known as Mount Mary Church, is a Roman Catholic minor basilica perched on a hillock in the Bandra suburb of Mumbai. The current structure, completed in 1904, is the third iteration of the church, replacing earlier versions dating back to 1640. It is renowned for its Neo-Gothic architectural style and its role as a significant pilgrimage site. The church houses a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, which was brought to India by Portuguese Jesuits in the 16th century. Every September, the basilica hosts the 'Bandra Fair', a week-long festival centered around the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The site offers expansive views of the Arabian Sea and the Mumbai coastline. It remains an active place of worship with daily liturgical services. The basilica was elevated to the rank of a minor basilica by Pope Pius XII in 1954.
The main courtyard area offering an unobstructed view of the church's facade and the coastal horizon.
Visit during the early morning hours on weekdays to experience the basilica without the intense crowds.
Respect the ongoing liturgical services by maintaining silence and staying within designated visitor areas.
Plan for walking, as the approach to the hill involves a steady incline.
Avoid visiting during the height of the Bandra Fair in September unless you are prepared for extremely large crowds and restricted vehicle access.
The basilica experiences heavy, restricted access during the annual Bandra Fair in September.
Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees should be covered. Remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum. Maintain silence within the main prayer hall.
