Here are widely recognized, highly regarded architects and architecture firms based in (or with major studios in) Mumbai — each line includes a short note and a source you can check for projects and credentials. Rankings vary by award lists, clients and project type, so consider which kind of work (residential, commercial, conservation, high-rise, sustainable, etc.) matters most to you.

• Hafeez Contractor — one of India’s best-known large-scale/high‑rise architects (major Mumbai towers, national awards). (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Sanjay Puri / Sanjay Puri Architects — internationally awarded firm known for inventive, large‑scale and housing projects (multiple WAF/MIPIM awards). (Worlddesignersociety.com)
• Bijoy Jain / Studio Mumbai — acclaimed for artisanal, material-led residences and international exhibitions; globally recognized practice. (theguardian.com)
• Rahul Mehrotra / RMA Architects — leading Mumbai-based urbanist and conservation-minded architect with a strong portfolio of institutional and cultural projects. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Shimul Javeri Kadri / SJK Architects — Mumbai-based firm with national/international awards and notable hospitality, residential and institutional work. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Sanjay Puri Architects (separate entry to emphasize scale/awards) — globally decorated firm noted for large multi‑award wins and innovative urban projects. (Worlddesignersociety.com)
• RMA Architects (firm) — prominent Mumbai studio led by Rahul Mehrotra with strong recognition in conservation, urban design and built work. (rmaarchitects.com)
• (For commercial/contract work and local rankings) Clutch/industry lists and curated online rankings can point to top-rated local firms by client reviews and project type. Use these when you need firms rated for delivery and budgets rather than awards. (Clutch.co)

Notes:

• “Top‑rated” depends on criteria (design awards, client reviews, large‑scale experience, conservation credentials, sustainability). The sources above highlight different measures (award coverage, profiles, industry rankings).
• If you tell me the project type (residential, apartment tower, office fitout, heritage conservation, budget range, or neighborhood in Mumbai), I can give a short, tailored shortlist (3–5 firms) with contact links and recent representative projects.