King George V Memorial Trust

In 1938, His Excellency the Governor of Bombay wanted to raise a suitable memorial to his Late Majesty King George V. The King George V Memorial Committee proposed constructing and outfitting an infirmary to care for destitute patients as a tribute. Simultaneously, the Bombay Helpless Beggars’ Relief Committee, managed by the Salvation Army and chaired by Sir Cowasji Jehangir, wanted to replace temporary shelters for homeless beggars with permanent structures. Recognizing the overlap between the objectives of the Infirmary and the Beggars’ Home, Sir Cowasji developed a plan to unify their efforts under a single management. He generously contributed to the project, and with land permanently leased by the Bombay Municipal Corporation at Mahalaxmi, the King George V Memorial Trust came into existence.

After India’s independence, the Bombay Municipal Corporation and the State Government took control of the trust. Its main objectives were to care for destitutes and beggars and to operate an infirmary where destitute patients from civic hospitals could recuperate.

In the 1980s, the beggars’ home was relocated to suburban Bombay, and the vacated barracks were repurposed for deserving Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to carry out relief and rehabilitation work. Meanwhile, the infirmary continued to provide essential services.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, a new Palliative Care Centre named the Sukoon Nilaya meaning “The Abode of Tranquillity”, was inaugurated at the facility. This centre, the first of its kind in Mumbai and Maharashtra, provides free treatment for patients with non-cancerous, life-limiting illnesses. It also empowers caregivers by training them to continue palliative care of their loved ones at home

The KGVM trust was blessed to have dedicated and devoted staff members who left behind them a legacy of compassionate service to humanity. Their spirits still walk the corridors and grounds of the KGVM campus and I am sure that they are smiling down from heaven in appreciation of what they see.

Preserving Heritage: Conservation of Historic Structures

Chetan Raiker, our trustee and a highly skilled structural engineer and conservation expert, is deeply committed to his work with the King George V Memorial Trust. He focuses on preserving the historic 85-year-old structures that play a significant role in the community’s heritage. His extensive experience in construction equips him with a strong understanding of modern techniques, allowing him to approach each conservation project with a balanced perspective that honours both contemporary practices and traditional values.

The architectural style of these buildings, which reflects colonial design, showcases intricate craftsmanship that has weathered the test of time. Conservation efforts take a comprehensive approach, addressing issues such as leakage, structural reinforcement, and aesthetic preservation. These combined efforts ensure that the integrity and beauty of the structures are preserved, allowing future generations to continue appreciating their historical significance.

Regular inspections play a vital role in these conservation efforts, allowing for the early identification of potential issues before they develop into larger concerns. The dedication to historical accuracy during repairs and maintenance ensures the use of original techniques and materials, involving local craftsmen who contribute their invaluable traditional skills and expertise to the project.

Furthermore, the expansion plans go beyond physical alterations; they aim to enhance visitor amenities, improve accessibility for people of all abilities, and integrate modern safety features, all while honouring the site’s unique heritage value within the community.

Chetan Raiker finds great joy in serving the community by preserving its history, viewing his work as not only a professional responsibility but a personal passion. Through the maintenance of these heritage structures, he nurtures a sense of pride and connection to the past, ensuring that future generations can also appreciate the cultural importance of their surroundings.