Was drenched in a wave of nostalgia, as I visited Mumbai last week after 16 long years….a city where I spent a good part of my growing up years! Nothing much had changed….only more people, more vehicles, more buildings…..but yet there is something magical about this city!
Weary feet tread along,
the wheels always on the move
carry the burdened shoulders, without a smirk
waves crash against the shore, with a sense of urgency
time and tide wait for none here.
Aspiring dreams find wings to soar
the glitz and glamour bedazzle the naked eye
there is a seamless amalgam of food, religion and people
the grandeur of festive celebrations is unparalleled.
Mafia and the underbelly, a dark reality
fragmented destinies lie scattered
rains and resilience flow together
sweaty brows overpower the fragrant scents
silhouettes stand tall against the swarm of slums.
A city that never sleeps
is defined by extreme contrasts
yet, boasts of a magnanimous character
as it embraces all into its fold!