Drawing inspiration from the classic Gothic architectural era, Saint Anne’s Church in Mazagaon features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and lofty spires, which are all hallmarks of the neo-Gothic style. The foundation stone was laid on April 10, 1880, and the Church was consecrated on November 6, 1881, by Bishop Leo Meurin.
On July 31, 1887, coinciding with the Feast of Saint Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, Saint Anne’s was formally recognized as a parish. Saint Anne is traditionally believed to be the mother of the Virgin Mary, and the grandmother of Jesus.
Saint Anne’s Church features stained glass windows depicting prominent themes from Christianity. The central window depicts the Ascension of Jesus, the window on the right shows the Descent of the Holy Spirit, and the one on the left depicts the Coronation of Our Blessed Lady and the Glory of All the Saints.
Statues of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Taoist deities, and folk gods are placed in the central shrine. Within the room, smaller shrines dedicated to specific deities or ancestors are present, each accompanied by its own set of offerings and decor. Candles are lit in front of the deities or on altars. Offerings, such as fruits, flowers, tea, and food, are arranged on altars as gifts to deities and ancestors. Worshippers light incense sticks as an offering to deities, to honour ancestors, and to purify the space.
The baptismal well at Our Lady of the Rosary is dedicated to Joseph Baptista, who was born in Matharpacady on January 4, 1864. Baptista was a fervent nationalist who studied law to become a barrister. As a member of the Indian National Congress (INC), he significantly contributed to the mobilization of public opinion in support of Indian Home Rule through his writings, speeches, and political engagement.
During the vicarship of Stanislaus Pereira, Our Lady of the Rosary church underwent extensive interior and exterior refurbishment to achieve a more contemporary appearance. Msgr Stanislaus, who served at Our Lady of the Rosary for nearly 20 years (1953-1974), implemented many changes for the benefit of the parishioners.
A marble plaque on the veranda provides a brief history of the Parsee Mazagaon Anjuman Daremeher. Serving as a place for Zoroastrians to pray, perform rituals, and celebrate religious ceremonies, the Daremeher holds a central role in the spiritual life of the Parsi community.
A chimney to burn spirit money, also known as joss paper. Spirit money is burned as an offering to the deceased, ensuring they possess wealth in the afterlife.
The temple conducts traditional Chinese religious rituals, including the burning of incense, offering of food and flowers, and the observance of various festivals. Significant events such as the Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival are celebrated with community gatherings and special ceremonies.
Fortune Sticks, known as Kau Cim, are bamboo sticks inscribed with numbers. These sticks are shaken out of a container to reveal fortunes, with each number corresponding to a written fortune that can be interpreted by temple staff. Kau Cim is often performed in temples dedicated to popular deities such as Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy), Guan Yu (God of War), and Mazu (Goddess of the Sea).