| |
Welcome to Mumbai- the city of dreams and home to the rich and famous.
Once a Portuguese princess' dowry and later an adornment of neo-gothic British architecture, Mumbai, is more than just a metropolis. An enigma in itself, Mumbai earlier known as Mumbai is the capital of Maharastra. Named after the the local deity, Mumba Devi, the city located on the Island of Salsette, off the west coast of Maharashtra, boasts of a natural harbor that was developed under the imperial rule. One of the most populous city of India (20 million as per the last census) Mumbai, home to people of diverse castes, creeds, colors and cultures is an amalgamation of seven islands namely, Colaba, Mahim, Mazgaon, Parel, Worli, Girgaun and Dongri. The group of seven islands was amalgamated way back in the year 1862. Further the reclamation of land from the sea has brought areas like the Churchgate and Nariman Point into existence.
The financial hub of India as well as entertainment capital of India, the port city of Mumbai pulsates with activity all the year around. With all its razzle-dazzle, it has been the Hollywood to all the Indian stargazers. Right from the Victoria Terminus to the Juhu beach, the city is full of treasures. People from various places come to the city of dreams in search of better opportunities. The inborn desire to become an actor or simply be successful in life draws people to the magnetic Mumbai. Home to various important financial institutions, like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) and the corporate headquarters of many Indian companies, the biggest of industries and the largest of slums are all found in Mumbai.
Being a cosmopolitan city, one can find in Mumbai a potpourri of various communities and cultures which is best seen in its cuisine, history and architectural landmarks which is both Victorian as well as Indian. So when you are in Mumbai during your holidays, make sure that you unravel the treasures of its beaches, hills and the caves. Go on the shopping spree at the bustling bazaars of Kalbadevi and Bhuleshwar as well as in the uptown Crawford market highlighted with the Mangaldas Market, Zaveri Bazaar, and Chor Bazaar. The life and styles of the people are extremes. The Bhelpuri on the Chowpatty is enjoyed as much as the pizza at any of the fast food restaurants. The balloon sellers, pigeon feeds, buggy rides and snacks take up the evenings at Mumbai.
You name it and Mumbai has it for you From Parsi dhansaak to Gujarati thalis, and Muslim kebabs to Goan vindaloos, Mumbai caters to individual needs of all kinds. From the roadside stalls to the 5 star hotels, the food and facilities can be opted for as per the requirements and the budget of the traveler. On the regular days slip to any of the many pubs and shake a leg at the various discotheques. Mumbai celebrates the year through with the ear-splitting processions and immersion of the idol of the elephant headed God at Ganesh Chaturthi to the dandiya during the navratris. Let the breeze from the Arabian Sea sweep you.
Come on over and be a part of the Magic called Mumbai and life wont be the same ever again. |
|
