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For Prelims:About Nana Jagannath Shankarseth,What are some of Shankarseth’s most significant contributions?
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Why in the news?
The Maharashtra cabinet decided to ask the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth.
About Nana Jagannath Shankarseth:
- He was a social reformer, educationist and philanthropist is often described as the “architect” of Mumbai (then Bombay).
- He made extremely valuable contributions in terms of both ideas and money to multiple sectors, to lay a strong foundation for the city.
- He was greatly inspired by the legendary merchant and philanthropist Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.
- He became the first Indian to be nominated to the Legislative Council of Bombay.
What are some of Shankarseth’s most significant contributions?
Education:
- Shankarseth was deeply committed to the growth and spread of education in Bombay, and donated land owned by his family for educational institutions.
- He founded the Native School of Bombay, which was renamed first as the Bombay Native Institution, and then as the Board of Education.
- Finally, this institution evolved into the prestigious Elphinstone College.
Museum, Temples:
- Shankarseth was among the wealthy donors who helped promote Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Byculla, which was designed by a famous London-based architect.
- The Bhawani Shankar Temple near Nana Chowk was Shankarseth’s tribute to his late mother Bhawanibai Murkute.
Railways
- The first train in India ran between Boribunder and Thane on April 16, 1853. The 34-km project undertaken by the Great Indian Peninsular Railway Company.
- The committee that gave the project impetus included Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy and Nana Shankarseth.
Source: Indian Express