St. Michael’s Church 🇮🇳

Located at the busy junction of Lady Jamshetjee Road and Mahim Causeway in Mumbai, India, St. Michael's Church—also fondly called Mahim Church—is one of the region's oldest Catholic sites. When you visit this environmentally friendly, 'go-green' parish, you are stepping into centuries of fascinating Mumbai history. The original structure began as a convent back in 1534, constructed by Franciscan church builder António do Porto.

Over the centuries, the location served as a sanctuary for the icon of the Virgin Mary during 18th-century invasions and witnessed a dramatic 15-day siege in 1853 when Bishop Anastasius Hartmann famously vowed he would rather die a martyr than yield control. While the building you see today was rebuilt in 1973, the spiritual heritage remains deeply rooted. Inside, you can immerse yourself in local culture, especially on Wednesdays during the novena prayers to Our Lady of Perpetual Succour. You will witness tens of thousands of devotees gathering every week, some offering unique wax figures—such as small wax houses—to express their personal requests.

Whether you are exploring historical Portuguese footprints in Mumbai or observing vibrant local traditions, St. Michael's Church offers you a captivating window into the city's rich interfaith religious life.

What to see at St. Michael's Church

• One of Mumbai's oldest Catholic churches, originally built as a convent in 1534
• Dramatic history including a 15-day siege in 1853 led by Bishop Anastasius Hartmann
• Popular Wednesday novena prayers to Our Lady of Perpetual Succour drawing 40,000–50,000 devotees weekly
• Unique tradition where visitors offer wax figures, such as wax houses, representing their prayers
• An environmentally friendly 'go-green' parish situated at Mahim Causeway

Visiting tips

Visit on a Wednesday if you want to experience the vibrant weekly novena prayers alongside thousands of local devotees.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Wednesday

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. Michael's Church is easy to reach on Mumbai’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya and EsselWorld. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Mumbai travel guide.