Mumbai is not a city, it is an emotion.
An emotion that resonates within every Mumbaikar; a feeling that overwhelms every person who flocks to the city of dreams and ends up calling it home. Be it the never dying spirit or the bustling diversity, Mumbai is truly all accommodating.
It doesn’t matter if you call it ‘Mumbai’ or ‘Bombay’, the city embraces you with open arms. In fact, if you have the eye, every street paints a picture, every place is eager to tell a tale and, I can say this from personal experience, there are hues everywhere.
I was always embarrassed of the fact that despite living in the city, I had never explored its many offerings. But once I did, my love for the city only grew! And now, I want to gush about all the offbeat things that’ll make you fall in love with this city that beats 24/7!
1. Revere in wonder at the Mahatma Gandhi mural at Churchgate Station
Wait, when did this happen, you ask? Well, give all props to Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra! This mural is part of the St+art Urban Art Festival 2017, which is a collaboration of the St+art India Art Foundation with Asian Paints, and strives to give Mumbai sights a vibrant makeover and bring the average Mumbaikar a little closer to art! And of course, Bapu gets a feature!
In fact, why don’t you see for yourself how this awe-inspiring mural was brought to life!
All the millions of people passing by Churchgate station, you’ve got Bapu watching over you!
2. Satiate your inner art & history buff with museums and art galleries
Yeah, I know what you’ll say, not one for these artsy types, puh-lease! But believe me when I say this, Mumbai’s many art galleries have so much more to offer!
if you were to visit Paris, you’d definitely visit the Louvre, right? So why not swing by one of Mumbai’s quaint museums? You’ll be surprised by what you learn!
3. Wandering around Old Bombay to drink in its architecture
South Bombay is like an architectural buff’s haven, with its old colonial era buildings still reminding us of the city’s rich heritage. From the Gateway of India to Flora Fountain, Chhatrapaji Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to Big Ben’s doppleganger Rajabai Tower, each of these beautiful buildings are stalwarts exuding old-world charm!
In fact, I was so proud to find out that Mumbai has the second largest number of art deco buildings in the world! So cool, right?
4. Marvel at the pretty sights of the Sassoon Docks Art Project
Mumbai, the city of seven islands, is home to many docks but most of them are not open to the public. However, one of the oldest, Sassoon Docks, has recently been transformed into a beautiful art project for the St+art Urban Art Festival 2017, by St+art Indian Foundation and Asian Paints.
And it is a sight that I must insist you to behold as soon as you can!
A collaboration with more than 40 local artists has turned one of Mumbai’s heritage sights into a colourful masterpiece, which tells the tale of this vibrant city!
5. Sniff old books at Kitab Khana
One look at this place is enough to give any bibliophile major bookstore #goals! I mean, seriously, look at it!
You can buy books or stay in there browsing for eternity, taking in the fragrance of old books all you want. And don’t worry, if you get hungry, there’s a decent cafe too!
6. Treat yoself to brun maska at an Irani Cafe
Irani cafes may be a dwindling sight in Mumbai, but the few that remain are an absolute delight to visit. Apart from their typical decor and delicious authentic Parsi cuisine, the owners of these cafes have loads of nostalgic stories to tell you of the days gone by over a cup of chai and brun maska!
Don’t forget to indulge in some berry pulao and raspberry soda while you’re there too!
7. A treat for your eyes and tastebuds? Prithvi theatre and NCPA offer you both
The Late Shashi Kapoor’s legacy still lives on in the twinkling lights and much revered stage of Juhu’s Prithvi theatre, where many a thespians have showcased their raw acting talents. Come here to catch an interesting play and stay back for the yummy khana and kitschy ambience of the Prithvi cafe!
And if you’re in South Bombay, the National Centre of Performing Arts (NCPA) and cafe offer you both, a treat for the drama buff and foodie too!
8. Gawk in amazement at the unique Bombay Arts Society Building
You’d think a 127-year-old institution would look drab and boring but wait till you see what the building actually looks like!
A stellar specimen of European expressionist architecture, this abstract structure designed by architect Sanjay Puri houses three art galleries and even an amphitheatre! But just looking at it makes you want to take out your phone and snap like crazy!
9. There’s something for everyone at the Kala Ghoda
Art buffs, the true heart of Mumbai’s art scene is at Kala Ghoda! Flanked on all sides by important city landmarks, this district will quickly become your favourite spot! Known by this name because of a statue of the then Prince of Wales mounted on a black horse, it is also the home of the famous Kala Ghoda Arts Festival!
Held every year on the first Saturday of Feb and continuing for nine days, the fest has something for everyone: art installations, street food, shopping, and performances!
Then again, what can you expect from the street that houses Jehangir Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya and The Arts Trust!
10. Click loads of selfies at the LOVE Mumbai installation
A familiar sight? Many cities world over have such installations. But last year, this particular one was part of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival and became extremely popular!
After a request filed by St+art India Foundation and Asian Paints, the Love Mumbai installation has found a home at the Bandra Reclamation promenade! Which means, rush to Bandra to click selfies!
Personally, I think this sign encapsulates the entire essence of Aamchi Mumbai! Which is why, this entire art initiative by Asian Paints and St+art India has me sighing with delight! You’re breathing a new life in my beautiful city and this Mumbaikar’s loving every hue of it!
PS: Fellow Mumbaikars, I beseech you to go check these beautiful sights out! You’ll fall in love with Mumbai all over again!