Mumbai

Mumbai ‘Maximum City’, Bombay ‘City of Dreams’; whatever the name, Mumbai is perhaps the most vibrant and cosmopolitan city in India. Its prominence stems from its history as a trading port under the Portuguese, the British and today in independent India, where it serves as both its commercial and entertainment capital.

The British legacy can clearly be seen in the Gateway of India, the imposing gothic public buildings which architecturally dominate the city, and in cotton mills reminiscent of those in the North of England (now being ’redeveloped’ as expensive flats). Chawls, hastily constructed since colonial times are today run down, but full of character and precariously house the middle classes, whilst the rich live in pristine tower blocks.

Despite the vast changes that have taken place in its history, traditional Koli fishing villages can still be found among the city’s skyscrapers, bazaars, slums and colonial mansions. The city’s favourite open space is still Chowpatty beach, with Marine Drive, like a European promenade, seemingly designed for strolling in the setting sun. Alongside the numerous Hindu temples can be found churches, a synagogue and many mosques, including the beautiful Haji Ali’s Mosque built on an island in the Arabian sea and only accessible via a causeway at low tide. Off the coast, on Elephanta Island are a series of hand-carved caves decorated with statues dating back to the 5th century.

More than anything else, Mumbai has always been a city of trade, and much of the city continues to revolve around commerce. It is home to Mumbai’s financial district, the famous Chor Bazaar (thieves market) and the notorious red-light district of Kamathipura.