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Dhobi Ghat

Dhobi Ghat historical timeline

Last updated on October 20, 2026
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Dhobi Ghat's history is the continuity and adaptation of a working laundry rather than a sequence of ceremonial rebuildings.

Chronology

  1. The Mahalaxmi open-air laundry is constructed during Bombay's colonial urban expansion.
  2. 20th century Concrete wash pens, drying areas and cooperative organisation support service to households, hotels and institutions across the growing city.
  3. Late 20th–early 21st century The flyover view becomes widely known to visitors while the laundry continues as a workplace.
  4. Mumbai's heritage committee formally discusses the site's intangible cultural value, recognising that living work practices matter alongside physical fabric.
  5. Present day Manual processes continue beside pressing, transport and other adapted methods.

Verified against India Cine Hub, October 2026.