About the event:

Discover Byculla through fresh eyes as we connect the nature, history and art of Byculla through a nature and heritage walk. We open with tea at Piramal Museum of Art, Byculla Gallery that features a Thukral & Tagra work -- a series of 26 artworks at the gallery inspired by the flora of the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo. Each of these trees is the subject of a canvas. We then walk towards Rani Bagh's Botanical Garden where Hutokshi Rustomfram will take us on a tree appreciation walk covering some of these trees but also exploring the larger context of the garden. Alisha Sadikot takes over from here and takes us on a heritage walk as we travel through 19th century Byculla. This walk encourages an exploration of its complex histories, natural beauty and unique contemporary character in the face of the city's transformation.

About the facilitator:

Alisha Sadikot is an independent museums and heritage learning consultant working to instigate critical and creative public engagement with art, museum collections and heritage spaces in Mumbai through curated walks, visits and workshops. Formerly, she was Curator, Education & Outreach, at the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum from 2012 - 2015.

Hutokshi Rustomfram is a Trustee of the Save Rani Bagh Botanical Garden Foundation, a public charitable trust established to promote, preserve and protect the heritage botanical garden of V.J.B. Udyan popularly called Rani Bagh. She has co-edited the large-format book 'Rani Bagh 150 Years' showcasing the botanical and cultural aspects of Mumbai's largest green public space. Information on Rani Bagh and the 12-year journey of the Foundation can be found on www.saveranibagh.org.

Please note the Nature walk (Led by Save Rani Baugh Foundation) is free for all participants, the heritage walk will be charged.

Itinerary:

• 08.15 AM - Meet at Piramal Museum of Art, Byculla Gallery (Piramal Aranya). Tea and biscuits and Introductions amongst presenters and participants, followed by a short art walk on the T&T series of art works.
• 08:45 AM - Proceed to Rani Bagh | Hutokshi Rustomfram takes over and starts the nature and tree appreciation walk
• 9:30 AM - Alisha Sadikot starts the Byculla Heritage walk outside the Bagh
• 11:00 AM - End our heritage walk at the entrance to Rani Bagh

Route: Piramal Musuem of Art, Byculla Gallery - Rani Bagh - Gloria Church - Masina Hospital - Regina Pacis - Regal Cafe - Byculla Station - Byculla Market - Rani Bagh

Note: Participants are requested to carry their own water bottles, wear comfortable clothing preferably cotton and hats.