Mumbai’s new cultural gem: Discover Mount Mary’s immersive Biblical experience

Mount Mary’s Basilica in Bandra has long been more than just a historic landmark; it’s a revered sanctuary and a gathering place for people of all faiths. Now, directly across from this iconic site, nestled beneath the Mount Mary Steps, a new cultural attraction has emerged: ‘Pranam Maria’. This immersive experience takes visitors on a journey through the life of Jesus Christ and His mother Mary via 252 life-sized statues set within a meticulously recreated historical environment.

The project’s roots trace back to 2008 was inspired by a similar exhibition he encountered at a Varanasi cathedral. Joaquim dos Reis, a member of the Archdiocese’s finance committee, notes, “The foundation stone was laid with the vision of creating a space for the thousands who visit the Basilica.” The experience is expected to open to the public in September, pending the final occupancy certificate.
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The façade of ‘Pranam Maria’ features a striking sculpture of The Holy Family—Joseph, Mary, and Jesus—set against a backdrop of seven boats and a towering Cross. This artwork, crafted to resemble intricately carved wood, symbolises Jesus’s past as a carpenter and his future on the cross, while the seven boats represent Mumbai’s seven islands and its fishing heritage.

Entering the experience involves ascending a gentle slope to a concave building designed to evoke a mother’s womb. Adorned with tiny mosaic tiles and an abstract depiction of ‘The Woman and the Dragon,’ this entryway invites visitors into a sacred space. The main doors, painted with Alpha and Omega symbols, open outward, symbolizing an open invitation to all.

Covering 10,000 square feet across two levels, it offers a 50-minute multimedia journey through 2,000 years of history. Visitors are enveloped in a custom musical score and dramatic storytelling as they move through scenes of lush landscapes, sunsets over the Sea of Galilee, and key Biblical moments. The statues and sculptures are brought to life with theatrical lighting, music, and narration.
The creation of the 252 life-sized statues began in 2018, with traditional artisans from VV Patkar’s studio sculpting the figures. The faces were painted by Rishikesh Deshmane, an alumnus of JJ School of Arts.