Utsav Chowk reflects the Greek architecture style and stands tall as a proud beacon greeting those who visit Kharghar
Utsav Chowk is a landmark structure located at Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. What makes it distinct is the Greek architecture style, the structure is designed in, clubbed together with a dainty garden and fountain. It is located at the junction of sectors 4.5 and 7 and acts as a welcoming beacon of Kharghar.
The architectural beauty of Utsav Chowk is visible during the days, especially during the monsoons when it resembles ancient Greek arenas and amphitheaters covered by dark clouds and lashed upon by the rains. It kind of looks like a Historical place.
During the nights, the well light Utsav Chowk reflects it’s colourful lights on the waterfall cascading down.
The Utsav Chowk structure is one of the best places to visit in Kharghar as it is nothing less than a marvelous welcoming structure that does more than just decorate the junction. It is more of a proud insignia of the people of Kharghar, just like the Shilp Chowk structure, also located in Kharghar.
- Location: Kharghar
- City: Navi Mumbai
- Taluka: Panvel Taluka
- District: Raigad District
- State: Maharashtra
- Local Administration: Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC)
Utsav Chowk reflects Greek Architecture style
Utsav Chowk stands out for it’s Greek styled architecture. To be precise, the structure of Utsav Chowk resembles the Colosseum, the arena that was shown in the movie The Gladiator!
About the Colosseum – Well, those who are unaware, the Colosseum still is the largest and most famous ancient amphitheater in Rome. The grand structure was envisioned by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty in 72 AD and though he had started the work, it was finally completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. History tells that the Colosseum’s grand opening ceremonies carried on for around 100 days. The spectacles that had taken place included slaughter of around 5,000 animals. Most distinctly, it has seen gladiators fighting for their lives and honour with around 2,000 losing their lives during the events.
The Colosseum had more than 80 entrances and a capacity of 50,000 spectators. There were sails called “Velarium” attached to the top of the attic, to protect the spectators from the rain and scorching sun.
Utsav Chowk Garden and Fountain
There is a small patch of grass and plants that form a garden and carpet the structure. There are some pretty flowers in it.
Also, there is a fountain at the centre of the Utsav Chowk structure that is put to action during special events. It is a pretty good sight, especially during the nights when the colourful lights reflect on the flowing water.
The erstwhile Kharghar Utsav Chowk Khau Galli
Just a few years ago, the Utsav Chowk was also the epicenter of the street food scenario of Kharghar. It had earned the chowk the moniker of “Khau Galli” and to be frank, it was justified in every sense.
During the evenings, the Utsav Chowk would turn into a street food hub as dainty carts, lined up on one side of the foot paths, dishing out lip smacking food items. Foodies of all age groups could be seen crowding up the street food carts in large groups. It was nothing less than a street food haven for the residents of Kharghar and even surrounding places like CBD-Belapur, Kamothe up to Panvel.
However, the local administration found it detrimental to the aesthetics of the place and also owing to their stand against street vendors occupying public spaces. After a brief period, the Kharghar Khau Galli was officially removed to nearby places. Some of them even rented out a huge shop to jointly run their food business under the banner “Grand Utsav Food Court” which continues to attract a huge crowd of foodies every day.
Evenings at Utsav Chowk, Kharghar
During evenings, Utsav Chowk turns into a local hot spot frequented by many. You can see youngsters sitting around in groups, having fun with their friends, families bringing along their kids to sit along the wall lining the footpath, while their kids play along and evening walkers and joggers passing by, every now and then.
There are some famous eateries and food stalls near Utsav Chowk at Hiranandani Crystal Plaza, Swarna Complex and Bhoomi Tower. People grab a light snack to be relished sitting comfortably at the chowk.
Events at Kharghar Utsav Chowk
There have been few but some great events at Utsav Chowk in the past. During the Navi Mumbai Festival, 2010, drummer Shivmani had performed at the Utsav Chowk to a huge enthusiastic crowd. There are two vacant plots next to Utsav Chowk that host events like a circus, arts and craft exhibitions and the Kharghar Dandiya Festival, every year.
How to reach Kharghar Utsav Chowk
Kharghar Railway Station to Utsav Chowk – 4 min (1.6 km) – via Bharti Vidyapeeth – Utsav Chowk Rd/Raintree Marg
Kharghar Hiranandani – Highway or Pravesh Marg to Utsav Chowk – 2 min (700 m) via Pravesh Marg
Taloja Highway to Utsav Chowk – 14 min (6.6 km) via Raintree Marg/Utsav Chowk – CISF Rd
Directions (Google map) to reach Utsav Chowk, Kharghar
Last Updated on June 4, 2021 by lp@admin
