Below is a translation of an article from Mumbai no Bahar (1874) by
The Ancestors and Heirs of The Honorable Jagannath Shankarseth
The original surname of this illustrious family of the Sonar (goldsmith) community is Murkute. Their ancestral residence was in Ghodbunder, located at the end of the Bassein (Vasai) creek. From there, Babulseth first arrived in Mumbai in Samvat 1760 (Shaka 1655). Although these gentlemen belong to the Sonar community, their occupation was not limited to it. Bringing a small capital saved from agricultural earnings in their native land, they began money-changing and banking (Shroff) business here. By the grace of God, as their business flourished, Lakshmi (wealth) graced their home. As time passed, they expanded their banking activities and became renowned as prominent bankers in this port city.
It is said that Nana's father, Shankarseth was born in Mumbai in Samvat 1760 (Shaka 1662). After his father’s death, he expanded the banking business to such an extent that he was considered a first-class merchant among the banking community. According to Hindu customs, in Samvat 1859 (Shaka 1724), he took a large group (Sangh) on a pilgrimage to Shri Nashik Trimbak.
The Honorable Jagannath Shankarseth
This hardworking and multi-talented Sheth, popularly known by his nickname Nana, was born in Samvat 1850 (Shaka 1725) on the auspicious day of Magh Vad 13, a Thursday, on this island of Mumbai. During his childhood, while others spent time in play, he was deeply engrossed in his studies. As he reached youth, seeing no difficulty in handling the family banking business, he began to sit among the prominent bankers as a leader. Not only that, but due to his humble and grave nature, he earned great respect among merchants of all communities.
Education and Social Reform
Though he received a primary education in his native Marathi language, he also possessed a good knowledge of Sanskrit. Furthermore, he had such an affinity for English education that despite his worldly commitments, he took time to invite renowned tutors like Mr. Murphy and Mainwaring to his home to study privately. Through daily interactions with eminent English friends, he gained great proficiency in the English language.
After acquiring this knowledge, he decided to utilize it for the public good. At the age of about 18, he stepped into public life. For 51 years since then, he maintained a connection with various institutions. One of his most useful works, which shall never be forgotten, is the establishment of the "Elphinstone High School," originally started as the "Native Education Society" in Samvat 1881 (Shaka 1744). In this task, Jagannath Sheth was a leader alongside the late Sheth Framji Cowasji Banaji.
Legal and Civic Contributions
He was also a respected member of the "School Book Society" established in Samvat 1880. His brilliance was such that when the Supreme Court began appointing "Petty Juries" for criminal cases in Samvat 1884, the government included Nana among the prominent citizens chosen for this role.
He was also a staunch supporter of the reforms brought by Governor Mountstuart Elphinstone.
(Translation of the section regarding Sir John Malcolm and the Judiciary): When a conflict arose between Governor Sir John Malcolm and the Chief Justice Sir John Peter Grant regarding the powers of the Supreme Court, Nana played a pivotal role. To show support for the independence of the judiciary, a grand meeting was called in Samvat 1886. Nana took the lead in presenting a "Manpatra" (Address of Honor) to the Judge, showing great courage despite potential government displeasure.
Public Infrastructure and Travel
In Samvat 1890, he was appointed to the Grand Jury. By 1834, under the reign of King William IV, he was formally recognized as a "Justice of the Peace" (JP).
Travel and Religious Contributions
In his lifetime, Nana traveled outside Mumbai only twice. His first journey was in Samvat 1883 (Shaka 1748) to Pandharpur and other holy sites to study ancient customs and temples. Twelve years later, in Samvat 1895, he traveled to Pune, the ancient capital of the Peshwas. There, he met government officials and local merchants, receiving great honor. Beyond these, he did not undertake any other major travels.
The Theater
In the Fort area, an English theater known as the "Playhouse" had been built. Later, the building became dilapidated and the English community lost interest. Seeing this, Nana used his own vacant land to build a beautiful new theater under the supervision of Captain Frobisher in 1848. This not only filled a cultural void but also became a source of income for the owner.
The Royal Asiatic Society and Public Health
He was instrumental in ensuring that Indians were admitted as members of the Royal Asiatic Society (Bombay Branch). In Samvat 1901, he was formally inducted.
The Bombay Association
He was the "founding father" of the "Bombay Association," established in Samvat 1908 to keep a watch on government proceedings and represent the people’s interests. He remained its leader until his death.
Education and Healthcare
He founded the "Jagannath Shankarseth Charities School" in Girgaon in Samvat 1909. For higher education, he donated 40,000 Rupees to Mumbai University to establish Sanskrit scholarships in his name. In memory of his father, he established the "Shankarseth Charitable Dispensary" near Tardeo in Samvat 1914 to provide free medicine to the poor.
Political Leadership and Social Justice
When the East India Company's rule ended and the Crown took over, Legislative Councils were formed. The government appointed Nana as the first Indian member from the Hindu community to the Legislative Council in Samvat 1918 (1862). He was re-elected for a second term in Samvat 1820 (Shaka 1785), a position he held with great dignity until his death.
Support for the Sonar Community in Goa
He also intervened when the Portuguese government in Goa harassed the local Sonar community (prohibiting them from using palanquins). He wrote a petition to the King of Portugal, which led to the restoration of their rights.
The Cemetery Dispute
One of his greatest achievements was resolving the "Cemetery Dispute." Some English officers wanted to move the Hindu crematoriums and Muslim/Parsi burial grounds away from the city, claiming they were a health hazard to the growing population. Nana argued forcefully in the Council that these sacred spots had been there since the island was nearly empty and that they posed no threat to life. His firm stance saved the ancestral cremation grounds of the native communities.
The Statue of Nana
To honor his immense service, a public meeting was called by prominent citizens (including Dr. Bhau Daji) at the Town Hall in Samvat 1920. It was presided over by Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy. Despite some opposition from certain quarters, it was unanimously decided to commission a marble statue of Jagannath Shankarseth to be placed in a public building in the city. A sum of 25,000 Rupees was raised on the spot for this purpose.
Family Tree
Narayanseth (Head of the family)
Gambaseth
Babulseth
(From Babulseth): Shankarseth and Gambaseth
(From Shankarseth): Ramchandra, Karshanseth, and Jagannath (Nana)
(From Jagannath): Vinayakrao
(From Vinayakrao): Dinkarrao, Balmukund, Babarao, and Bhawanishankar
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