Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount🔔

Tucked away on a serene hill in Bandra, overlooking the Arabian Sea, stands the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, better known as Mount Mary Church. This 100-year-old edifice, with its Gothic architecture and spiritual legacy, has long been a sanctuary for people seeking solace, peace, and blessings. Whether you're a believer or not, visiting this sacred site is an experience that stays with you long after you leave, and I had the chance to explore its beauty and sanctity on a warm afternoon in 2022. 

The approach to Mount Mary Church is a journey of calm in itself. As I made my way through the winding roads of Bandra, surrounded by lush greenery and quaint bungalows, there was a distinct sense of calm that enveloped the air. Despite the bustling city that surrounds it, the church and its surroundings seem to have a peaceful energy, almost like stepping into another world. 

The first glimpse of the basilica was breathtaking. Perched atop a hill, the church’s iconic blue and white structure stands in stark contrast to the surrounding greenery and the vibrant hues of the city below. The Gothic-style facade, with its tall spires and intricate stained-glass windows, evokes a sense of awe. It felt like I had been transported to a different era, with the church’s architectural beauty standing as a testament to its rich history. 

As I climbed the steps leading up to the entrance, I couldn’t help but pause to take in the panoramic view of the Arabian Sea stretching out in front of me. The sight of the sea meeting the sky, with the gentle sea breeze brushing past, made the setting feel all the more divine. I could see people sitting on the steps, quietly reflecting or enjoying the peaceful environment, and I felt a deep sense of tranquility wash over me. 

Upon entering the church, I was immediately struck by the serene and sacred atmosphere. The interior of the basilica, with its high ceilings, wooden pews, and beautiful altar, is simple yet elegant. The soft light filtering in through the stained-glass windows cast a warm, colorful glow across the church, creating an atmosphere of deep reverence and peace. The altar, adorned with candles and flowers, is where the statue of Our Lady of the Mount, also known as Mother Mary, stands. The statue of the Virgin Mary, dressed in a beautiful robe and holding the infant Jesus, is the focal point of the church, and people from all walks of life come here to seek her blessings. 

What makes Mount Mary Church truly special is the sense of faith and devotion that fills the air. I noticed people lighting candles, some kneeling in prayer, others sitting in quiet reflection. Despite the steady stream of visitors, there was a deep sense of calm that seemed to permeate the space. The church’s open and welcoming nature made me feel at ease, even as a first-time visitor. 

Mount Mary Church is particularly famous for the annual Bandra Fair, which takes place in September to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of the Mount. While I wasn’t there during the festival, I’ve heard stories of how the area comes alive with vibrant colors, music, and celebrations. Devotees from all over Mumbai and beyond come to participate in the festivities, seeking blessings and offering gratitude. The fair, with its mix of spiritual devotion and cultural celebrations, is one of the highlights of Bandra’s community life. 

One of the unique aspects of the basilica is the practice of offering wax models as votive offerings. Near the entrance, there is a small section where people light candles and leave wax offerings shaped like various body parts, houses, or cars, symbolizing the prayers they are making. If someone is praying for healing, they might leave a wax model of a leg or arm. If they’re praying for prosperity or a new home, they might leave a small wax house. This tradition of leaving wax offerings, combined with the simplicity of lighting a candle, adds a deeply personal and heartfelt dimension to the act of prayer. 

After spending some time inside the church, I stepped out to explore the surrounding area. There’s a small pathway that leads around the church, offering a quiet space for reflection and breathtaking views of the sea and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. I found myself pausing multiple times to simply take in the beauty of the surroundings—the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below, the distant hum of the city, and the peaceful silence of the church grounds. It was one of those rare moments when time seemed to stand still. 

Before leaving, I stopped by the small stall outside the church where you can buy candles and religious souvenirs. I picked up a few candles to light as a gesture of prayer, and as I lit them, I felt a sense of calm and gratitude for the experience I had at Mount Mary Church. It’s not just a place of worship—it’s a space where one can find peace, comfort, and a connection to something larger than oneself. 

As I walked back down the steps, I couldn’t help but feel lighter, as if the worries I carried with me had been lifted in the serene atmosphere of the basilica. The combination of the church’s spiritual energy, its stunning location, and the faith of the people who visit make it a truly special place. 

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount is not just a church—it’s a refuge, a beacon of hope, and a sanctuary for all who seek peace, no matter their background or beliefs. Whether you come to pray, to reflect, or simply to take in the beauty of the place, you will leave feeling renewed and at peace. My visit to Mount Mary Church was, without a doubt, a 10/10 experience, one that I will carry with me for a long time.