Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai

The Jehangir Art Gallery is situated in Mumbai and was established by Sir Cowasji Jehangir upon the encouragement of K. K. Hebbar and Homi Bhabha. The architectural design for the gallery was created by G.M. Bhuta on behalf of G.M. Bhuta & Associates.

This gallery was officially opened on January 21, 1952, with the inauguration ceremony attended by the then Chief Minister of Bombay State, B. G. Kher. It was dedicated to the memory of Sir Cowasji's late son, Jehangir. It holds a significant place in the world of Indian art, closely tied to the revival of Indian artistic expression.

Within the complex, you'll also find the well-known Samovar cafe, which retains a nostalgic connection to the socialist culture of the 1970s. Additionally, it houses Natesans, the country's oldest licensed antique dealers.

The building is an early example of concrete construction in the city. The gallery has an inward-facing design, serving both as an auditorium and an art gallery. While today, the idea of an introverted art gallery might be questioned, the Jehangir represents an early modernist approach of art spaces that look inward. Furthermore, due to the dual function of an auditorium, it couldn't be open to the street. The design incorporates a distinctive large wavy cantilevered entrance that reaches out to embrace the street, adding interest to an otherwise plain facade, which is adorned with relief stone cladding.