Bhiwandi, Thane Overview

Located 20 kms north- east of Mumbai and 15 kms north- east of Thane, Bhiwandi is a small city in the Konkan Division of Maharashtra. The industrial town is also colloquially known as the ‘Manchester of India’ as it houses the godowns and warehouses of leading textile industries. Besides, it is popular for its diverse culture and natural beauty. Bhiwandi has several temples and other places of religious importance that draws a lot of tourists to the place.

Among the top temples are Jankai Devi Temple, Gaav Devi Temple, Shankar Temple, Gyaneshwar Temple, Shree Sai Mandir, Shitla Devi Temple, Sai Mandir and Shri Hanuman Mandir etc. Aside from the temples, the town is surrounded by beautiful lakes and enthralling waterfalls that are a sight to behold. You can visit the Varaladevi Lake, Kamvare Lake, Mulgai Lake, and Sonale Lake etc.

History of Bhiwandi

As far back as history can be traced, it is known that Bhiwandi was initially occupied by the Koli and the Konkani tribes who practiced their own trade and even had their own port called the Bandargah. These inhabitants were primarily fishermen and the city was then called Kolwan. Some of the ruined ancient ships can be found even today. Later it was occupied by the Mughals. And soon after the textile trading began. Today, the town has about half a million power looms and is some of the leading industries in the business.

Business in Bhiwandi

Known as the “Manchester of India” owing to the flourishing textile industry, Bhiwandi boasts of housing the largest number of power looms in the country. A major chunk of the population survives through the power loom industry. As the city is in close vicinity of these industries, it not only provides skilled, efficient and cheap labourers to the industry. Besides, it also helps in storing the goods and products in the warehouses made in the city.

Festivals in Bhiwandi

Among the main festivals celebrated in Bhiwandi are ‘Ganesh Pooja’ and ‘ Naralli Poornima’. Ganesh Pooja is a celebration of Lord Ganesh with a lot of pomp and show. Whereas Naralli Poornima is the celebration of the fishermen as fishing was the main occupation here. During the rainy season, the fisher folks celebrate this festival where they offer a coconut to the sea as a symbol of devotion. Special dish called ‘Naralli Bhaat’ i.e. coconut rice is also served.

How to Reach

The nearest airport to Bhiwandi is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport situated in Mumbai. The nearest railway stations are situated in Bhiwandi itself- Bhiwandi Road railway station and Kharbao railway station. It is also connected to the neighbouring cities of Maharashtra via local buses and taxis.