Versova, Mumbai, has become a colourful and artistic masterpiece on India’s West Coast. This fully developed suburb is at the heart of the Indian film industry, with the glamorous features of modern cities and the shade of an ancient fishing village.
Among Versova’s architectural gems, Rustomjee Ocean Vista is a multi-storey tower with spacious 3 and 4-BHK apartments meticulously designed for your comfort. Scroll down to learn more about Versova’s vibrant lifestyle and charm.
A Brief History of Versova
Versova, originally called ‘Vesave,’ was a small fishing village dating back to the 16th century, mainly inhabited by Koli fishermen. In the late 19th century, Parsi businessmen built bungalows and orchards, adding a foreign touch.
Urbanisation reached Versova by the mid-20th century, and in the 1970s and 80s, the film industry began to grow in the area. By the 2000s, Versova had become a sought-after residential hub for artists and professionals. The Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar Metro line, completed in 2014, further modernised the suburb.
Living in Versova: Community and Lifestyle
Unlike some other Mumbai suburbs, Versova stands out with its diverse population and variety of lifestyles, blending new-age and historical elements. This coastal suburb offers a vibrant mix of Mumbai’s modernity and its traditional charm.
Versova’s friendly and culturally varied residents range from Koli locals to Bollywood stars, artists, and young professionals. This diversity fosters a rich cultural scene with festivals, art fairs, and pop-up markets.
The social life here reflects the interests of its residents. It features unique bars, gourmet eateries, chic cafes, and art galleries alongside traditional fish markets. Weekends often include beach clean-ups or impromptu music sessions.
Read Also: What is Community Living?
Top Attractions in Versova
It is easy to see why people are falling in love with Versova, Mumbai, for its nature, history, and people. Here are the must-visit spots that capture the essence of this vibrant suburb:
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Versova Beach
One of the best places to visit, especially when escaping the busy and noisy city, is the lovely beach, famous for its stunning sunset. This is a convenient place for city people to take their morning and evening walks and come to the park on the weekends for a picnic.
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Versova Fort
This is a 16th-century Portuguese fort that is now in ruins but gives a feel of the colonial sight in the region. It has remained a popular spot due to its weathered exterior and landmark location, which make it ideal for historical lovers and photographers.
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Versova Jetty
A busy structure, the jetty gives wonderful insights into the life of a fisherman in the area. For those who prefer early mornings, there are fish markets where fresh fish auctions occur.
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Versova Village
The original fishing colony, with its cobblestone paths and Koli tribal architecture, is a cultural expedition of the city.
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Versova Seafood Festival
Organised annually, the festival allows locals and visitors to enjoy delicious fish dishes and fisher folk performances that reflect the region’s culture, mainly around fishing activities.
Read Also: What are the Benefits of Living Near the Beach?
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Versova’s location is very advantageous. It also possesses a relatively superior connectivity and transportation network compared to Mumbai’s other suburbs.
- Metro
There is only one line, the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar Metro Line 1, which has significantly changed local transport. The western terminus of the Versova Metro Station allows people to easily reach the town’s most essential areas.
- Buses
Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport, or BEST, runs many bus routes that link Versova to other parts of Mumbai. People prefer air-conditioned buses for commuting.
- Roads
The Versova-Andheri Link Road and New Link Road are the two major roads connecting the suburb to the other areas. These well-constructed and well-maintained roads facilitate vehicle movement. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available.
- Water Transport
Proposals are being made to start water taxis linking Versova to the southern part of Mumbai. This could cut the journey time to the central business district.
Healthcare Facilities in Versova
Versova has provided different healthcare facilities to enable city residents to access medical services. Although the suburb may not contain many large-scale hospitals, it includes several clinics and is near several more in neighbouring areas.
Local Clinics and Nursing Homes
- Versova Health Centre: A centre provided and operated by the government that focuses on people’s basic needs in terms of medical services.
- Sai Clinic: A clinic that simultaneously provides medical services for several specialities.
- Several private clinics offering general medical, paediatric, and dental care are scattered in the area.
Nearby Hospitals
- Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital: It is a first-class multi-speciality healthcare facility at Four Bungalows, not far from Versova.
- Cooper Hospital: A large-scale healthcare centre in Juhu that provides numerous healthcare facilities.
Shopping and Dining in Versova
- Versova Fish Market: A live market popular for fresh catch and Koli merchandise.
- Versova Village Handicrafts: Small boutiques selling locally made artefacts, knick-knacks, and souvenirs.
- D-Mart: A hypermarket that offers foods, groceries, consumer durables, and other sundry items needed in a day.
- Lifestyle Stores: Small individual shops and designer apparel stores are easily found around the main roads.
Bollywood and the Film Industry in Versova
Versova has rightfully earned its place as the home to Bollywood and entertainment industries, thus being an essential part of Mumbai’s film industry.
- Celebrity Haven: Many Bollywood actors, directors, and other professionals live in Versova because of the view of the sea and the location of shooting facilities.
- Production Houses: Many small—to medium-scale production houses have started opening offices in Versova, which has boosted the region’s film industry.
- Casting Offices: Versova is the hub of many casting directors, and therefore, young artists looking for auditions and fame tend to establish themselves here.
- Film Shoots: The facilities primarily used for filming include the beach, the narrow lanes, and beautiful scenery.
- Star-spotting: Celebrities are often spotted at the nearby gyms and cafes or walking along Versova Beach, further enhancing the place’s glamour quotient.
- Film Events: The suburb occasionally conducts low-key film shows, workshops, and related activities, further ensuring its place in the Bollywood circuit.
Safety and Security in Versova
Versova, Mumbai, is generally safe with low crime rates compared to other districts, though petty theft and pickpocketing can occur. The Versova Police Station provides regular patrols and collaborates with local associations to enhance security.
Visitors should avoid swimming at Versova Beach due to risky tides, despite the presence of lifeguards. While Versova is safe for women with basic precautions, heavy traffic requires caution from both pedestrians and drivers. Nearby fire departments and hospitals add to the area’s safety measures.
Why Choose Versova?
Versova is a location close to the sea and, at the same time, near largely populated areas, making it appealing to a large cross-section of people. Here are key reasons to consider this vibrant Mumbai suburb:
- Beachfront Living: Versova’s shoreline along the Arabian Sea provides a fantastic opportunity to own seaside property in Mumbai, a severely crowded city.
- Entertainment Hub: Proximity to Bollywood makes it fun for movie lovers and workers in the film industry.
- Connectivity: Good road connections with other parts of the city, including the metro, make getting around Mumbai easier.
- Thriving Food Scene: Whether it is a local seafood restaurant, a new fusion restaurant, or a cosy café, Versova has it all for those with different taste buds.
- Modern Amenities: Rustomjee Ocean Vista, for instance, is a contemporary architectural project that provides luxury homes with a sea view within Versova’s appeal.
- Work-Life Balance: The place’s ambience contradicts Mumbai’s fast-paced life and offers a more leisurely beach experience.
Versova, Mumbai, is quite unlike its counterparts. It combines the calm culture of Coastal India with the lively energy of Mumbai. For those who wish to reside in Versova, Rustomjee Ocean Vista offers the possibility of living in luxury with a beautiful sea view. Experience the beauty of Versova and find out how the Rustomjee Ocean Vista can enhance your life in Mumbai.
FAQs About Versova, Mumbai
1. Is Versova a posh area in Mumbai?
Yes, Versova is a posh locality on the outskirts of Mumbai in the northwestern suburbs.
2. Which is better, Juhu or Versova?
Versova Beach is located west of Juhu Beach and extends to the Andheri suburb. Versova Beach is slightly less crowded than the former beach.
3. Which celebrity lives in Versova?
Many Bollywood and TV celebrities reside in this area, especially on Yard Road. While Sushmita Sen, Arshad Warsi, and Tabu are some of the famous faces on this list, there are others, too: Anant Mahadevan, Manisha Koirala, etc.
4. What is Versova Mumbai famous for?
Versova Mumbai is famous for its Versova beach, Versova Fort, and high-end housing facilities.
5. Is Versova good to live in?
Versova is a suburb of Mumbai in the western part of the city. The Arabian Sea lies on its western side, and neighbouring localities are Andheri and Oshiwara. The area is located close to the sea and offers a great view, so it is one of the most desirable residential areas.
