Bai Pirojbai Dadabhoy Manekji Vatcha Agiary, located in the heart of South Mumbai, is one of the oldest and most respected Parsi fire temples in India. Built in the late 19th century, it serves as a sacred place of worship for the Zoroastrian community and stands as a unique architectural and spiritual landmark in the bustling Fort area. Though entry is restricted to Parsis, the temple is admired for its serene ambiance, majestic facade, and religious significance.
Temple About
Bai Pirojbai Dadabhoy Manekji Vatcha Agiary was established in 1881 by Bai Pirojbai in loving memory of her husband. It is one of the important fire temples serving the Zoroastrian population in Mumbai.
Temple Description
This Agiary is a stunning example of Persian revivalist architecture blended with colonial influences. It features symbolic statues of winged bulls with human heads at its entrance, inspired by ancient Assyrian motifs. The inner sanctum houses the sacred fire, which is continuously kept burning by priests.
Temple Speciality
Home to a revered Atash Adaran (medium grade sacred fire).
Restricted entry to Parsis, following traditional Zoroastrian customs.
Hosts the annual Salgiri festival commemorating the temple's founding and fire installation.
Temple Address
6, Dr Dadabhai Naoroji Road, Dhobi Talao, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400001, India
Temple Location (Longitude & Latitude)
18.9402° N, 72.8354° E
Temple Timings
Generally open from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Entry limited strictly to Zoroastrians
Temple Sevas
Machi prayers, Boi rituals, and Jashan ceremonies
Salgiri anniversary marked by special pujas and gatherings
Rituals are performed by Mobeds (Zoroastrian priests)
Traveling Facilities
Located in central Mumbai – easily accessible by local trains, buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws
Good connectivity via roads and public transport
Food Facilities
Excellent options in nearby Fort and Colaba areas:
Britannia & Co., Ideal Corner, Café Excelsior, and Yazdani Bakery
Stay Facilities
Many accommodations in the vicinity:
Budget hotels, mid-range guest houses, and luxury hotels like The Taj Mahal Palace
Nearby Railway Station
Churchgate Station – ~0.4 km
CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) – ~0.7 km
Nearby Airport
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai Airport) – ~25 km
Nearby Bus Station
Dhobi Talao Bus Stop
CST Bus Depot
Bus Routes to Temple
BEST buses from suburbs like Andheri, Dadar, Sion, and Bandra to CST/Fort area
Train Routes to Temple
Western Line: Get off at Churchgate
Central/Harbour Line: Get off at CST (VT)
Airways to Temple
Nearest airport: Mumbai International Airport (BOM)
Prepaid taxis and ride-share services available from the airport to Fort area
Nearby Cities to Temple
Thane
Navi Mumbai
Panvel
Pune (150 km away)
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Gateway of India
Maneckji Seth Agiary
Jehangir Art Gallery
Marine Drive, Kala Ghoda Art District
Crawford Market
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – best time due to cool and pleasant weather
Avoid May (hot) and July–September (heavy rains)
Shopping Famous For
Colaba Causeway – fashion, accessories, books, souvenirs
Crawford Market – groceries, spices, dry fruits
Fort Area – boutique stores, antique shops, bookshops
Bai Pirojbai Dadabhoy Manekji Vatcha Agiary is more than just a temple it is a cultural and historical gem for the Zoroastrian community. While non-Parsis can’t enter the sanctum, the temple’s majestic structure and the surrounding heritage-rich locality make it a must-see landmark for all. Its spiritual aura, proximity to other attractions, and accessibility make it an essential part of Mumbai’s religious and architectural landscape.
Bai Pirojbai Dadabhoy Manekji Vatcha Agiary, located in the heart of South Mumbai, is one of the oldest and most respected Parsi fire temples in India. Built in the late 19th century, it serves as a sacred place of worship for the Zoroastrian community and stands as a unique architectural and spiritual landmark in the bustling Fort area. Though entry is restricted to Parsis, the temple is admired for its serene ambiance, majestic facade, and religious significance.
