Finally my one year old desire to re-visit Mumbai, finally came true. Eversince the terrorists terrified the nation on 26/11 by launching a daring attack on the landmarks of financial capital of India, I wanted to visit the places hit as a mark of my tribute to the brave soldiers, citizens and victims of that massacre.One thing that comes up time and again to the fore is the character of this amazing city and its people.
Mumbai - you will hate it at first and then fall in love with this city.For a man coming from the laid back city of the Nawabs, the first time I visited Mumbai way back in 1999 - the sight and smell of Mumbai hit me out of my socks. My first reaction travelling from CST to Vashi in the early hours of the morning with its blatant display of poverty and misery disgusted me to say the least. Crowded one room shacks, utter disregard for hygiene or dignity it was revolting to say the least.I used to wonder why would people from all over the country flock to this long and crowded city seeking a better life and settle for such a shabby life. Every time I visit, eversince my first visit, I am still getting a kaliedescope of answers for this question of mine - this is when you start falling in love with this city.
Mumbai is not for the faint hearted or the lazy bums - this city will ensure that you are always on your toes, it has something for everyone. Except for decent housing a peanut seller would lead a purposeful life enough to save and take care of his family. The name of the game is hardwork. And once you are injected with its blood you will be an addict, you would not like to live in any other city.Whatever you are, an uneducated boy to the highest qualified citizen this city has a big heart and work to keep you occupied.
People would assume that a big city is a bad city - but Mumbai is different.There is probably no other city where you will the disparity of the "Haves" and the "Have Nots" more than in this place and hence a breeding ground for dishonesty. Its one of the most honest and safe cities in India. May be there is enough work for everyone or may be people dont have time to think of cheating others - that does not mean you let your guard down, just that people are not really interested in making an extra buck out of you. I can recall many incidents to vouch for the same.
Another amazing thing about the city is what is called the "Spirit of Mumbai" - it never dies. Be it devastating terrorist attacks, life stopping floods, communal riots this city and its people always bounces back.You cant keep this city locked up in their houses for any reason.There is amazing solidarity right from a common labourer to the richest business man to the famous film start - they love this city in the true sense of it.The grafiti on the walls from Bombay Central to Churchgate says it all. They are proud to say its "Aamchi Mumbai".
All I can say of this wonderful city is "Salaam Mumbai " a truly wonderful city.
More Pics : http://www.orkut.com/Main#Album?uid=16831825160219067580&aid=1260834623
No comments:
Post a Comment