The City by the Sea

view from our guesthouse at 7am

Mumbai: city by the sea, gateway to India, chaotic, filthy, incredible!

People who have traveled to India share a similar sentiment: sensory overload. They always spoke of the senses and how all of them are engaged and overstimulated, especially in Mumbai. Part of the adventure of travel is the sensory overload, is it not? India, according to my friends, was on another level. Smells of the intoxicating and repulsive kind were invisible threads that weaved a fragrant tapestry; sounds of touts rapidly pawning their wares or services, the not so friendly honks from car horns, and the everyday hiss, sizzle, and crunch of food being prepared all formed a fantastic fugue; sights of the carefully wrapped women in their jewel hued saris, the vibrant fruits and vegetables piled on tarps, and the filth that cakes the streets were all part of a large mural. I loved that my senses were engaged at every corner, turn, and stop while walking the streets of Coloba, a section of the city tourists frequent.

These are all part and parcel of life in Mumbai. I also liked seeing the proud Gate of India, the intricate rock caves at Elephanta Island, and the worn out cricket field where men practiced; they were all impressive in their own respect. More impressive was the ebb and flow of people living out their lives. Life is difficult here, obviously, for some more than others. But no matter what your circumstances you're allowed to try and live out your life. Etch out a meager or fruitful life for yourself in the city's rough marble.

These are some of my impressions of Mumbai. I only spent two days in the city so these insights are based on a very brief encounter. I read a novel called Shantaram. It is a great novel that tells the tale of an Australian man who escaped from prison and lead a fugitive life in Bombay, the novel is set in the 1980s when the city was called Bombay. After reading this novel, I appreciate the glimpse I got into this intriguing city. Check out the book if you want to learn more about life in Mumbai.