dharavi: a historical overview

Dharavi, often described as the microcosm of Mumbai, has evolved over three centuries through waves of migration from across India. Originally a small fishing village inhabited by the Kolis and surrounded by mangroves, it began transforming in the 1880s when polluting industries like tanneries were relocated from South Mumbai. This shift attracted poor rural migrants seeking jobs and affordable housing. By the late 19th century, communities such as potters from Saurashtra, tanners from Tamil Nadu, and artisans from Uttar Pradesh had established themselves, laying the foundation for Dharavi’s diverse social fabric.

Today, Dharavi is home to a wide range of religious, linguistic, and caste groups. The Muslim community, primarily from Uttar Pradesh, forms the largest religious group, alongside Tamilians, Hindi-speaking Hindus, Neo-Buddhist Marathis, South Indian Christians, and a Gujarati pottery community in Kumbhar Wada. Over time, Dharavi has grown into a bustling economic hub with thriving industries in leather goods, garments, imitation jewelry, embroidery, pottery, plastic recycling, and food production. These small-scale industries generate thousands of jobs and produce goods worth over $1 billion annually.