Magical Bandra, rolling waves at Bandstand, vibrant energy and lights that inspire. The stretch of Skyline, earthy Chowpatty, bustling Marine Drive, and a comforting breeze at Worli. The cobbled roads, with the canopy of Banyan trees speaking of the years gone by. I am mystified by the streets of Colaba, transported back in time by the Gateway, enchanted by the lights of the Queen's necklace, romanced by old British architecture at Fort and Fountain, and quite in love with the City of Dreams.
What does Mumbai mean to you? I see a flash of a city constantly on the move, rushing with contagious energy. The food is a delight - Panipuri, Pav Bhaji and a whole dinner's worth of Bhelpuri for as much as Rs. 8. Some places that are a must visit are Cafe Mondegar, Britannia for 'Berry pulao', Theobroma for amazing brownies and Only Paranthas. Go to the Dome, right on Marine Drive, or to Out of the Blue in Bandra if you want to feel glam, Escobar in Bandra for a good party or Polyester down south to dance the night away. Also try South indian at Banana Leaf close to Juhu and crepes at the Creperie near Carter Road.
On my first day here, I set out on foot to explore a bit of Worli and Prabhadevi. As I walked, I felt myself merging into the hustle-bustle. It seemed as if noone was looking at me or making me feel like a stranger not knowing her way around. Everyone was going their own way, not time for nonsense, not bothered that there was a clueless newcomer among them. People were friendly on the street, to the point, in a very professional sort of way. No inquisitive glances, no uncomfortable stares. In the evening, there were hawkers sprawled beneath the Siddhivinayak temple, selling jasmine flowers. There was the kulfi wala, and no dearth of street side goodies. Walking along the Worli Seaface, I felt at home.
The next day I decided to explore a bit of South Bombay. I was amazed at the ease of being able to move around here, be it the cabs, autos, or the ek chaalis ki last local. I flagged down a cabbie, and the next thing I knew I was speeding away past Haji Ali. As the cool breeze hit my face, I felt thankful just for being there. There is something for everyone here. For the history buff, the British architecture at Fort and Fountain, the cobbled roads. All these have been witness to a tumultous past, to ages of sweat, struggle, and to new beginnings, graciously bidding farewell to those who have come and gone. I curled up with a book at Tea Center, sipping my steaming Kawa Chai, after a long walk admiring the Elphinstone, the Flora fountain and the Bombay university.
There is ofcourse, the not-so-bright side to Amchi Mumbai. The little boy cleaning the local train, the city bursting at its seams with the slums, and yet, home to one and all. The city where billions are lost the way sand castles are washed away at the beach. And yet, forgiving, all including, and accepting everyone.
Mumbai is a treasure of experiences. From the boulders of Bandstand, to the sands of Juhu. From tea for Rs. 5 at the local tea stall to Cappucino at Rs. 50 at CCD, all within walking distance of the other, the city never ceases to amaze with all its diversity. I will remember always the Jazz music, Naturals icecream, Squash games and long walks on Carter road, watching the Sunset, with the soft romantic glow of lights and the soothing sounds of the waves.
What does Mumbai mean to you? I see a flash of a city constantly on the move, rushing with contagious energy. The food is a delight - Panipuri, Pav Bhaji and a whole dinner's worth of Bhelpuri for as much as Rs. 8. Some places that are a must visit are Cafe Mondegar, Britannia for 'Berry pulao', Theobroma for amazing brownies and Only Paranthas. Go to the Dome, right on Marine Drive, or to Out of the Blue in Bandra if you want to feel glam, Escobar in Bandra for a good party or Polyester down south to dance the night away. Also try South indian at Banana Leaf close to Juhu and crepes at the Creperie near Carter Road.
On my first day here, I set out on foot to explore a bit of Worli and Prabhadevi. As I walked, I felt myself merging into the hustle-bustle. It seemed as if noone was looking at me or making me feel like a stranger not knowing her way around. Everyone was going their own way, not time for nonsense, not bothered that there was a clueless newcomer among them. People were friendly on the street, to the point, in a very professional sort of way. No inquisitive glances, no uncomfortable stares. In the evening, there were hawkers sprawled beneath the Siddhivinayak temple, selling jasmine flowers. There was the kulfi wala, and no dearth of street side goodies. Walking along the Worli Seaface, I felt at home.
The next day I decided to explore a bit of South Bombay. I was amazed at the ease of being able to move around here, be it the cabs, autos, or the ek chaalis ki last local. I flagged down a cabbie, and the next thing I knew I was speeding away past Haji Ali. As the cool breeze hit my face, I felt thankful just for being there. There is something for everyone here. For the history buff, the British architecture at Fort and Fountain, the cobbled roads. All these have been witness to a tumultous past, to ages of sweat, struggle, and to new beginnings, graciously bidding farewell to those who have come and gone. I curled up with a book at Tea Center, sipping my steaming Kawa Chai, after a long walk admiring the Elphinstone, the Flora fountain and the Bombay university.
There is ofcourse, the not-so-bright side to Amchi Mumbai. The little boy cleaning the local train, the city bursting at its seams with the slums, and yet, home to one and all. The city where billions are lost the way sand castles are washed away at the beach. And yet, forgiving, all including, and accepting everyone.
Mumbai is a treasure of experiences. From the boulders of Bandstand, to the sands of Juhu. From tea for Rs. 5 at the local tea stall to Cappucino at Rs. 50 at CCD, all within walking distance of the other, the city never ceases to amaze with all its diversity. I will remember always the Jazz music, Naturals icecream, Squash games and long walks on Carter road, watching the Sunset, with the soft romantic glow of lights and the soothing sounds of the waves.
Such a nicely written note - could not resist commenting. Still settling into Mumbai but completely relate to what you have written. Wonderful writing skills - try your hand at a book.
ReplyDeleteThank you Harsh! :) Delighted to see your comment! Really appreciate the encouragement. Every time I remember you - the images of our Rendezvous Choreo come to mind. Those were some of the best days ever!
ReplyDeletewell written lady. having been in mumbai for last six years now can relate to what you felt here and perhaps thats one of the reasons me and sumit find it difficult to go back to Delhi (except for couple of days) :)...hope to see more of such thoughts from you Shonali !
ReplyDelete