Mumbai’s Iconic Taraporevala Aquarium Set for Grand Reopening

The iconic Taraporevala Aquarium, nestled along the scenic Marine Drive in Mumbai, is set to make a grand comeback after being closed since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Situated on the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Marg—popularly known as Marine Drive or the Queen’s Necklace—the Taraporevala Aquarium (also spelled Taraporewala Aquarium) holds the distinction of being the oldest public aquarium in India. Strategically located between Charni Road and Marine Lines stations on Mumbai’s Western Railway line, this iconic landmark is being revitalized and reimagined as a world-class tourist destination.

Originally inaugurated on May 28, 1951, by former President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the Taraporevala Aquarium and Marine Biological Research Station was named in honor of philanthropist and Parsi businessman D. B. Taraporevala, whose generous contributions made the project possible.

A beloved attraction for both locals and tourists, the aquarium had remained shut since March 2020 following the outbreak of the pandemic. The reopening is a broader effort to revitalize the city’s coastline and enhance its tourism infrastructure. 

However, the restoration wasn’t without challenges. The ongoing construction of the Dharamveer Swarajya Rakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Mumbai Coastal Road project had affected the building’s structural stability, adding complexity to the renovation process.

The upgraded facility promises modern exhibits, interactive displays, and improved infrastructure, aligning with international standards. As per reports, the renewed aquarium will not only showcase a diverse marine ecosystem but will also serve as a center for marine education and conservation.

The aquarium has long been a popular stop for families, students, and tourists exploring South Mumbai. With its reopening, the city reclaims a cherished piece of its heritage, bringing back nostalgia for the old and offering new experiences for the next generation. As the finishing touches are being put in place, the Taraporevala Aquarium once again is poised to become a sparkling gem on Mumbai’s coastline.