In a groundbreaking move, Adani Group revealed its partnership with acclaimed architect Hafeez Contractor for the Dharavi redevelopment project, set to transform one of Asia’s largest slum clusters. The Group secured the project bid in November 2022, pledging an initial investment of Rs 5,069 crore for the over Rs 20,000-crore initiative.
Hafeez Contractor, a Padma Bhushan recipient, is a luminary in the Indian real estate sector, known for his iconic designs that elevate the urban landscape. His portfolio boasts projects like The Imperial Towers in Mumbai, 23 Marina in Dubai (among the world’s tallest residential buildings), and significant contributions to Mumbai and New Delhi airports, along with the DY Patil Cricket Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
Born in Mumbai, Contractor’s architectural journey began in 1968 when he apprenticed with Ar. T. Khareghat. He later graduated from the Academy of Architecture in Mumbai and Columbia University, New York, in 1976-77. His career spans decades, marked by over 75 national and international awards, including CWAB Architect of the Year and A+D Hall of Fame for the Decade Award.
Contractor’s firm, which started with a modest three-person team in 1982, has burgeoned to over 550-plus professionals, handling projects in 100 cities and 5 countries, totaling 7.2 billion square feet.
The Dharavi redevelopment project, initially valued at over Rs 20,000 crore, gained attention after Adani Group’s triumph in November 2022. The collaboration with Hafeez Contractor adds a visionary touch to the initiative, promising a transformation for the 0.7 million residents of Dharavi.
