Bloga Raga

Feb 13

Mumbai

Mumbai isn’t for everyone. A mega city of 18 million people, its overwhelming congestion, noise and dirt can be a real turn-off. But I like it. It has the same kind of energy that draws people to New York city. I admit that I hardly know it. I cocoon myself in Colaba and mostly head out on foot. Car travel is limited to a trip to Anokhi and now to Malabar Hill, where Hansiba has opened a shop.

It had been two years since my last visit. There are many changes. A new toll road by-passes some of the congestion on the way to the airport, though it can still take over an hour if a VIP, like Rahul Gandhi, is expected in town. More public transportation projects are underway and several million people have been added. The international airport has a new terminal and multiple security checkpoints (you’ll need to leave plenty of time for this).

I was anxious to see The Taj Hotel. Like millions of people I watched through that night and into the morning.

The Taj Hotel

I’ve never stayed at The Taj as a guest, but the Sea Lounge is an oasis and I always have ‘high tea’ there when I’m in Mumbai. I thought The Taj would feel different and of course there are changes. Security is tight. But once you pass through and enter the large lobby it feels the same; a calm, comfortable escape. The hallway that leads to the original structure and the grand staircase has the familiar exclusive shops

Just the Basics

and the staircase is still dizzyingly beautiful.

Looking up the staircase, to the ceiling.

Luckily you have to walk up a flight to the Sea Lounge. You’ll want to have your picture taken as you descend. The panoramic view of the harbor and Gateway to India from the Sea Lounge is partially obstructed by scaffolding and netting where repair work is still underway. But in the adjoining room I took this picture of the colorful boats waiting to ferry pilgrims and visitors to Elephanta Caves.