Forgotten Japanese Temple of Mumbai

Mumbai is a city full of hidden gems that constantly surprise you. Serene and quiet in the middle of Worli, one of the busiest parts of town, lies a Japanese Buddhist temple. Built back in 1952, it was founded by a travelling Japanese monk, Nichidatsu Fujii, in order to spread peace in the city and country and is run through the charity of Seth Raja Baldeodas Birla’s family. Dedicated to the Japan Buddha Vihara temple trust, it follows the order of Nichiren Buddhism and the main prayer of this school is ‘Nam Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo’, a chant for peace.

The entrance of this temple has a Japanese inscription that reads “Nipponzan Myohoji” which is literally the name of the temple. Just like any other temple you are required to remove your footwear outside before entering it. As you enter, on your left side you will come across many English and Japanese articles explaining the history of the temple in detail and the Japanese spiritual connection with India. As you move further, you will be greeted by many Buddhist statues, a large Japanese drum which is probably used during the prayers and the interior adorned with paintings depicting the life of Buddha.

The main shrine consists of 6 statues of Boddhisattvas and a tranquil white marble statue of Buddha seated in Dharmachakra mudra symbolizing enlightenment. An incense holder in front of Buddha indicating one of the characteristics of Japanese Buddhist temples, shows a perfect amalgamation between the two ancient cultures.

Overlooking the main shrine, there is a small desk where many Sutra books in Japanese were placed along with some non-melodic percussion instruments used for chanting. Prayers are usually held during morning time at 0600hrs as well as evening time during 1730hrs, while the temple remains open for visitors from 0530-1230hrs and 1530-2000hrs.

When I visited this temple back in 2018, I also came around the pillars of the temple where some stickers in Japanese were placed reading food, medicines, stationery, miscellaneous goods etc. indicating the donation activities. Unfortunately, I couldn’t meet Morita San, the humble and gracious priest, residing here for many years, dedicating his life to uphold the principles of humanity, especially in these tumultuous times. Nevertheless, I was able to get detached from the chaotic world outside and got lost in the serenity of the place.

It is a relatively small temple but the holy and spiritual vibes here are influential enough to attain inner peace from a tired soul. Soak in the masterpiece of Indo Japanese architecture, where this peaceful sanctuary opens its doors to people of all faiths and the Japanese drum beats blend with sounds of Arabian sea waves paving a way for your connection with this universe.