A Timeless Tribute: Legacy and Artistic Association at the Cream Centre, Chowpatty and Thota Vaikuntam
Mumbai: Honouring a Timeless Legacy and Enduring Artistic Association: Thota Vaikuntam at Cream Centre, Chowpatty – Marine Drive
Celebrating over 68 years of heritage, nostalgia, and cultural legacy at Cream Centre’s first and most iconic outlet.
Some stories are not simply built over time, they become a part of collective memory. For over 68 years, Cream Centre has remained deeply woven into India’s culinary and cultural fabric, with its iconic Chowpatty outlet standing as the very beginning of this enduring journey.
Renowned contemporary artist Thota Vaikuntam, a living legend in the art world visited the historic Chowpatty outlet alongside Sanjiv Chona, Chairman of Cream Centre, marking a special moment that celebrates the long-standing association between art, culture, and legacy.
Known for his bold visual storytelling, monumental works, and deeply rooted portrayal of Indian life, Thota Vaikuntam is regarded as one of India’s most celebrated contemporary artists, with his works showcased across prestigious galleries and collections globally.
Installed within the Chowpatty space is Vaikuntam’s striking Shiva artwork, a powerful presence that has, over time, become an intrinsic part of the restaurant’s identity and atmosphere. The association reflects Cream Centre’s ability to seamlessly blend heritage with contemporary cultural relevance.
What began at Chowpatty over six decades ago has today grown into a beloved legacy brand spanning 35 outlets across 17 cities, while continuing to remain a nostalgic family dining destination across generations.
Speaking on the occasion, Rishi Chona, CEO of Cream Centre, said:
“Cream Centre has always stood for more than just food, it represents decades of memories, emotion, and togetherness. Chowpatty is where our story began, and it continues to hold immense emotional value for us. Thota Vaikuntam’s artwork has become a part of this space and its energy over the years. Having him here makes this association even more meaningful, as it beautifully reflects our shared roots in culture, tradition, and timelessness.”
Artist Thota Vaikuntam said:
“The Shiva painting holds a special place for me. It carries a monumental presence, and I am happy to see it living within a space like Cream Centre, where so many people experience and connect with it every day. I have always enjoyed my association with Cream Centre, there is a warmth, familiarity, and timelessness to the place that stays with people. In many ways, it is one of the finest vegetarian restaurant experiences I have had. Art should belong to people and become a part of their everyday lives, and it is wonderful to see generations engaging with the work in their own way within such an iconic space and has in – forced Cream Centre to be a vegetarian legacy restaurant”
Sanjiv Chona, Chairman of Cream Centre, added:
“What started at our Chowpatty outlet over six decades ago has today grown into a legacy embraced across cities and generations. Yet, the soul of Cream Centre continues to live within this very space. Thota Vaikuntam’s Shiva artwork carries a monumental presence and has become deeply woven into the identity of the restaurant. Watching people pause, admire it, and create memories around it over the years has been incredibly special for us. This association is not just about art within a restaurant. It is about preserving culture, emotion, and legacy within a living space.”
As Cream Centre continues to evolve while staying deeply anchored in its roots, this moment stands as a tribute to continuity, where legacy, memory, and art continue to coexist across generations.
