Sarabhai vs Sarabhai witnessed a widespread appeal for the nuanced performances by the actors, excellent comic elements and a delightful family drama. If you have watched the sitcom, you must be aware of the towering building where the Sarabhais apparently lived. But do you know about the significance of the apartment? If not, then this video is for you. Recently, a digital creator dropped a video on Instagram, explaining the history behind the building aka the Buckley Court in Colaba, Mumbai.
As per the video, the Buckley Court was initially a bungalow, owned by a family, which was later turned into a luxury hotel. The creator revealed that due to the heritage laws that came into effect in Mumbai in 1995, a real-estate developer was forced to purchase
this bungalow.
FYI: Heritage law refers to the legal framework designed to protect cultural and historical buildings. Since the Buckley Court couldn’t be demolished, Indian architect Hafeez Contractor took up the project of redeveloping the heritage structure by keeping the building intact.
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More About The Buckley Court
The architectural building plan, designated with numbers, showcased that the bungalow was equipped with an entrance hall of the tower block, followed by a parking area and a swimming pool on the deck. From number 5 rose the Duplex apartments where the Sarabhais resided in the show.
The imposing Buckley Court, built on the then newly developed Cuffe Parade seafront (an important business district of Mumbai), is one of the finest examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The distinct Moorish influence features intricate jjali work, complex stone carvings, elegant domes and well-ventilated wooden verandas.
The living spaces offer panoramic views of the Island City and the ocean. There are decks on all sides of every floor. The trapezoidal-shaped plan has been virtually derived from the tight demarcations of the site boundaries.
Internet Reacts To Buckley Court Information
“Was always so curious while watching the show to know this mystery finally resolved,” commented a user. “It’s as iconic as The Friends Apartment in New York.. our own famous TV series building,” noted another. “The interior design of the apartments shown in the show was also so iconic and cool,” gushed an individual. “Also, the cement used in this building was Pandurang cement and every brick had HPH written on it,” shared one person.
So, the next time you are in Mumbai, don’t forget to visit the Buckley Court.
