42_Esha Waingankar

At Vile Parle West Station, a roadside shrine quietly influences the life of the community, often unnoticed by hurried commuters. Framed by the station’s bustle, this small structure which almost becomes this mid point or a connecting point for the three speeds around it which are the railway, the pedestrian and the roadway.

For the care takers of the shrine, the shrine becomes a second home, also for the commutors it becomes a place to pause, pray, and connect. Locals stop for their journey partners or share stories with the people they know, transforming the area into a vibrant social hub. It also serves as a rickshaw stand as the rickshaws stop there for their fares. People who want a take a little snack or smoke break also take their shade in this space.

Throughout our first week of observation, we saw how this shrine shapes its surroundings, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity.