Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus🚊


My visit to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) was a long-anticipated one. Situated in the heart of Mumbai, this grand railway station is not just a transportation hub but an architectural marvel and a symbol of the city’s rich history. CSMT, previously known as Victoria Terminus, was built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. With its stunning Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, it stands as one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, a UNESCO World Heritage site that blends the beauty of the past with the pulse of modern-day Mumbai. 

I arrived at the terminus on a bright afternoon, eager to explore the grandeur I had only seen in pictures before. The terminus is just a short distance from many of the city’s major landmarks, but as I stepped out of the cab, my attention was immediately drawn to the intricately designed facade of the station. The combination of Indian and Victorian Gothic elements is truly mesmerizing. Arches, turrets, stained glass windows, and stone carvings are all blended together in perfect harmony, giving the station an almost cathedral-like aura. 

As I walked toward the entrance, I noticed the impressive stone lion and tiger sculptures standing guard at either side of the building. These represent the United Kingdom and India, a reminder of the colonial era when the station was built. The towering dome in the center of the structure, flanked by spires, adds to the station’s majestic presence. The station bustled with activity—commuters, tourists, vendors—each adding to the living tapestry that is CSMT. The place is alive with energy, and yet there is a certain reverence you feel as you stand beneath the imposing structure, taking in its legacy. 

Inside, the station was just as impressive. The high ceilings, the detailed ironwork, and the expansive stained glass windows made me feel like I had stepped into a grand hall rather than a railway station. The platforms, too, have their own charm. Despite the chaos and the crowd, the station’s beauty remains intact. I was especially drawn to the massive star-shaped stained glass window that brings light into the ticketing hall, casting a warm glow across the stone floors. 

I decided to take a moment to simply sit and observe the hustle and bustle around me. The station caters to millions of passengers every day, and yet it never seems to lose its charm. It feels like a place where stories begin, where people from different walks of life intersect, if only for a moment. The atmosphere is alive with conversations in multiple languages, the sound of announcements, and the rhythm of trains coming and going. But in the midst of it all, there’s an undeniable sense of history, of being part of something much bigger than the everyday routine. 

After spending some time exploring the different corners of the terminus, I made my way to the Heritage Gallery, located within the station premises. It showcases the rich history of the station and the Indian Railways, filled with old photographs, documents, and artifacts. It was fascinating to see how much the station has evolved since its inception, and yet it has managed to retain its historical significance. The gallery is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Mumbai and its transportation. 

As the sun began to set, the station took on a new form. The exterior of CSMT lit up, highlighting the intricate stone carvings, the arches, and the towering dome against the night sky. The terminus transforms into a glowing jewel in the heart of Mumbai, a true testament to the city’s resilience, progress, and history. 

My visit to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus was more than just a stop at a railway station; it was a journey through time, architecture, and the spirit of Mumbai. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a traveler passing through, CSMT will leave a lasting impression on you. For me, it was a perfect blend of the old and the new, a place where the soul of the city is reflected in every stone and every story. A 10/10 experience, with the promise of many more visits to come.

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