Mulji Jetha Fountain Explained

Mulji Jetha Fountain
Type:Drinking fountain (former)
Coordinates:18.9343°N 72.8358°W
Location:Fort, Mumbai, India
Built For:Dharamsee Mulji
Restored By:Vikas Dilawari Architects
Architect:Frederick William Stevens (designer)
John Griffiths (sculptor)
Architecture:Indo-Saracenic

Mulji Jetha Fountain is a listed heritage structure in Fort, Mumbai that was erected in 1894, following a commission by Ruttonsee Mulji, a cotton merchant who sought to commemorate the death of his only son, Dharamsi Mulji, who died aged 15 in 1889.[1] The statue of a boy on top holding a book represents the son who loved reading.[2] The drinking fountain was designed by architect Frederick William Stevens (who also designed the Victoria Terminus), and he was assisted by John Griffiths, the then principal of Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy School of Art.[3]

The structure is built in Indo-Saracenic style and the carvings employ many Indian motifs. Elephant heads have been used as corbels and water spouts are rendered in the shape of animal heads.[4] After decades of neglect, the fountain was restored in 2017 with funds raised by the Kala Ghoda Association.[5] [6] The plumbing was restored as well to make it functional again.[2]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: On Father’s Day, a look at the newly restored Mulji Jheta fountain, built by a father for his son. 17 June 2017. Architectural Digest India.
  2. News: 120-year-old fountain in south Mumbai to open this week. 12 June 2017. Hindustan Times. 15 June 2022.
  3. Web site: On Father’s Day, a look at the newly restored Mulji Jheta fountain, built by a father for his son. 17 June 2017. Architectural Digest India.
  4. Web site: Mulji Jetha Fountain, Bombay (Mumbai), by Frederick William Stevens (1847-1900). www.victorianweb.org.
  5. Web site: Mumbai: Vandalism threat looms over restored Mulji Jetha Fountain. 16 June 2017. mid-day.
  6. Web site: Kala Ghoda to restore famous Mulji Jetha fountain in Mumbai. 25 September 2016. mid-day.