Veergals in Mumbai: Decoding the Unknown Stories of the Past

Mumbai, India’s bustling financial capital, is usually associated with skyscrapers, street food, Bollywood, and constant movement. But if you pause and look closely, you may stumble upon ancient relics that silently hold centuries-old stories. One such example can be found in the Borivali suburb of Mumbai, specifically in a locality called Eksar. Here lie a few old memorial stones known as 'Veergals or Herostones'. Though many walk past them without noticing, these stones are reminders of acts of courage and sacrifice from a time long before the modern city existed and are a part of Mumbai’s history. 

What are Veergals or Herostones? 

Veergals, or herostones, are carved memorial stones that were erected to honour individuals who died while performing heroic acts. These were usually warriors who laid down their lives while defending their village, community, or livestock. In some cases, they even represent local men who died while protecting women or were killed in battle against raiders or invading forces. These stones served not only as grave markers or shrines but also as public memory, a way for communities to honour and remember their brave men. These memorial stones have been discovered in various parts of India, particularly in the southern and western regions. In different states, they are known by multiple names. In Tamil Nadu, they are called ‘Nadukal’, and in Maharashtra, they are called ‘Veergals’. One can find a few herostones in Karnataka as well. 

Despite the different names, the purpose remains the same: to remember and honour a person who gave their life for the safety or dignity of others. Most of these stones date back to between the 3rd century and the 18th century, covering a long span of Indian history, from early dynasties to medieval kingdoms. What makes Veergals culturally significant is the fact that they are not monuments to kings or royals, but to everyday heroes. In a time when written history focused largely on rulers, temples, and grand events, Veergals offered a way for local people to remember their own. These stones were often installed in public places such as village entrances, near temples, or at battlefields.

The carvings on these stones typically depict the hero in action, sometimes shown fighting enemies, holding swords or spears, or protecting animals and people. In many cases, the upper part of the stone shows a divine scene, where the hero is welcomed into heaven by gods or celestial beings, symbolising that their sacrifice earned them a respected place in the afterlife. Some stones also include short inscriptions, which briefly tell the story of the hero, including their name, the act of bravery, and sometimes the name of the person or ruler who erected the stone.

Veergals found in Mumbai

In Maharashtra, Veergals have been found in districts like Pune, Nashik, Satara, Raigad, and parts of the Konkan coast. These regions were ruled at different times by the Shilahara, Yadava, and later the Maratha dynasties. The style of the veergals found in Maharashtra is distinct. They often feature armed warriors with shields and swords, shown in the moment of combat. Some of them also depict a three-part structure, the lowest panel showing the battle scene, the middle panel showing the death or sacrifice, and the top panel showing the hero ascending to a higher realm or heaven.

Coming back to Mumbai, the city has changed dramatically over the centuries. However, there’s one such site in Eksar, a locality in Borivali West, where a few Veergals have been found. These stones are not placed in a museum or formally protected by any heritage authority. They simply stand there, in the open, surrounded by residential buildings and the regular activity of daily life. Historians believe that these Veergals may date back to somewhere between the 10th and 13th centuries, during the time of the Shilahara dynasty, which ruled over the Konkan region, including parts of what is now modern-day Mumbai. Though the carvings have faded due to centuries of exposure to the sun, rain, and pollution, one can still make out images of warriors holding weapons. The expressions of motion and battle are still somewhat visible, even if worn. Some of the stones may have once carried inscriptions, but time has made them hard to read.

What is unfortunate is that most people living in the area are unaware of the importance of these stones. They walk past them without realising that they are passing by a piece of ancient history. These stones are more than just archaeological objects. They tell us that long before the Portuguese, British, or modern urban developers came to Mumbai, this land was inhabited by people with their ways of life, systems of defence, and cultural values.

Why are Veergals an Important Part of History?

In recent years, local historians and heritage enthusiasts have started taking an interest in these Veergals. Some have requested that the municipal authorities protect them or install information boards to help people understand their significance. While official action has been slow, raising awareness is a good first step. If more people learn about these stones, they may be more likely to care for them and ensure they are preserved for future generations.