Mumbai Masala: Temple Man Is No More

He was popularly known as PS Mama. Recently, PS Subramanian, the man behind the magnificent Murugan temple complex at Chedda Nagar, passed away at 89. He joined the Subramanya Samaj as a volunteer. In 1963, he was elected as secretary and continued in that post till he died. Subramanian had a dream that he should build a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. He persuaded the Cheddas to donate land, and there was no looking back after that. With single-minded dedication, he fulfilled his dream. The architect was a Christian, and the civil contractor was a Muslim. The inauguration was done by the late Shankaracharya of Kanchi, who came on foot all the way from the deep south. PS added several mini temples dedicated to Guruvayurappan, Ayyappan, and other deities. He promoted Indian classical dance and music in a big way and also provided medical help to the needy.

City Bakery Is Still The Best

City Bakery on Annie Besant Road, Worli, continues to attract hundreds of customers even as fancy bakeries are mushrooming all over. The place sells some of the finest puffs, kharis, bruns, buns, puffs, croissants, etc. Its mawa cakes are much better than the ones at the much-talked about B Merwan’s of Grant Road. The best thing about City Bakery, which was destroyed during the communal riots, is its location. It’s near Worli Naka. You park your vehicle in front, pick up your stuff and vanish. The traffic cops don’t bother, so vast is this bakery’s goodwill.

Not The Same Anymore

Went to Pancham Puri opposite CST the other day after a long time and regretted it. Found cockroaches under the table. The place was dirty. Food is being served in flimsy cups made of dry leaves. The taste of the puris and aloo subzi in gravy was the same, though. But the overall experience left a bad taste in the mouth. Earlier, he used to serve only puri bhaji, but now he has a big menu with most of the items of indifferent quality. Maybe the BMC would like to drop in one of these days.

Tailpiece

Saw a little board in front of a tailoring shop on Hill Road, Bandra. It read: Gents and Ladies Alteration!

(Compiled by S Balakrishnan)

Published on: Monday, May 05, 2025, 10:11 AM IST