Life in Mumbai: A Journey Through the Windows

In a time not too long ago, my life was far from the bustling streets and skyscrapers of Mumbai. I was raised in a peaceful, small town where the windows in our home were simple openings to let in fresh air and sunlight. Those windows framed a view of the quiet neighborhood and the occasional passerby. Life was serene, and I had yet to experience the whirlwind that awaited me in Mumbai. In Mumbai, I found a city of dreams, a place where fascination met reality through the windows of my life. It was a journey of contrasts, where the surreal merged with the pragmatic, creating a tapestry that was uniquely Mumbai.

Windows to Mumbai: A Journey of Fascination and Reality

Window Views: My Mumbai Saga from Small Town to Big City

Growing up in a small town, my only connection to Mumbai was through the window of our quaint home. My childhood fascination with Mumbai began with its windows. It all began with a Bollywood classic, 'Mili,' where Jaya Bhaduri's character gazes out of a high-rise window. It was a surreal sight, two worlds coexisting in a single frame. Her world in the clouds, and a milkman ringing his bicycle bell far below. That moment ignited my curiosity about Mumbai, a city beyond my wildest dreams.

Fast forward, my IIM degree landed me a job in the heart of Mumbai. Stepping out of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, it felt like I had entered the world of movies. 'Coolies' at the railway station and 'kali peelis' (black-and-yellow taxis) outside made me feel like an actor in a parallel universe. I realized this wasn't a guest visit; I was here to stay, and it gave me goosebumps. In many movies like “Deewar” and “Don”, the window of opportunity had opened wide granting access to a city of dreams filled with endless possibilities and adventures.

My early days in Mumbai were spent in a high-rise hotel. Gazing out the window, I was greeted by a surprise—an identical tower opposite mine. The scene resembled something out of “UPSIDE DOWN”, as if I were on Earth, looking up to a parallel universe which is staring right at me. It was a truly remarkable moment. I spent hours in front of my window, studying every window on the other side of the building. The windows of the neighboring building felt like hundreds of TV screens simultaneously broadcasting different channels. The only difference was that I could see them live, and if I made an effort, I could even meet the people behind those windows in person. Each window offered a unique view—different people, different styles, different lifestyles, and various home ambiences, as well as different TV channels being watched. It was amazing. I even pinched myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming. I felt like spinning a top, just like in the movie 'INCEPTION,' to test whether it was a moment from reality or a dream.

Soon reality hit hard and all it ended, we were told to find our own accommodation. With this my long quest began to return to this high-raise world. In Mumbai, this is no walk in the park. Sweet-talking Brokers ferried me around the city. Rent soared sky-high, and smart survival instincts were essential. Yet, Mumbai's charm was undeniable; its people were polite and helpful.

I found roommates through MBA connections, and we moved into an old four storey house. The window view was no match for high-rises, but it had its charm. Gazing out, I had a front-row seat to the spectacle of Elphinstone Railway station.

The Elphinstone Connection: Captivating Stories from My Mumbai Window

My office is conveniently within walking distance from my home, granting me extra time to observe the vibrant tapestry of life that unfolds at the station from my window. Early mornings at the local railway stations were a sight to behold. Vendors, especially vegetable vendors, arrived with heavy bags perched on their heads. They navigated the station with a sense of ownership, chatting animatedly with their fellow vendors. Commuters jostled for space, their agility on full display as they weaved their way through the crowds. It was a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Mumbai, a city that never slept.

Commuters from far places bonded like a family, waving to fellow travelers. Initially, I was baffled by their bonding, but it all fell into place. They shared food, celebrated birthdays and retirements, engaged in political discussions, and even fought for seats. Mumbai's locals were like a joint family, and disputes were resolved within the group. They were more than just a mode of transportation; they were a lifeline, connecting individuals from distinct backgrounds and creating a sense of belonging.

However, as the train doors opened, this bond faded. Passengers merged into the city's realities, and Mumbai's stark contrasts re-emerged. The traffic and chaos were relentless, yet orderly. The first stop for many people is at Poha aunty in front of Railway Station. People from all walks of life, from those in suits to shorts, from iPhone users to those with non-touchscreen Nokia phones, gather around Poha aunty. She offers a limited standard menu with consistent quality. There's no confusion; people get to choose between poha, upma, and Sheera only. Some people flock around uncle who makes the vada pav entire life. Chaos is everywhere, but people are so civilized that they stand in respective queues to board autos and cabs. This is an epic meeting place for cabs and autos, which are also very well organized in queues to meet their customers. Just one question, "Kaha jaana hai?" (Where do you want to go?), and that's it—no more fuss and negotiations. The driver turns on the meter and takes off. People keep saying Mumbai never stops, but I'll add that Mumbai not only moves all the time, it moves at twice the speed of the rest of the world.

Unaffected by all this chaos and traffic noise, an aunty right in front of our apartment, in a makeshift home on the footpath, peacefully watches some Hindi entertainment channel on a big LED TV. Her home is makeshift, with one side supported by the railway compound wall and temporary walls on the other two sides, topped with a blue tarpaulin for a makeshift roof. In front of her house, there are nicely hung flowerpots, and a little to the right, a blue drum filled with water, perhaps for daily usage. A series of such makeshift houses under the big old buildings is a common sight in Mumbai. They are called Chawls. I heard that some of these people have houses in the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) buildings but still prefer to stay in these houses.

Switching to festivals, during festivals, most of the outsiders disperse to their native places, leaving the roads empty and giving locals the space to celebrate in style. On Sundays, kids block a part of the road to play cricket. I find Mumbai people to be among the best in the world in terms of understanding and consideration. Everyone seems to understand each other's conditions, so vehicles somehow find a way to cross these intense cricket matches undisturbed.

Talking about traffic, I find it amazing in Mumbai. In case of a deadlock in traffic, someone, be it a local or a cab driver, self-declares as a traffic police officer for a short while and puts in every effort to clear the traffic. From CEO of company to cab driver, patiently follow his lead and get out of the situation. This kind of nature is ingrained in Mumbaikars. They trust the judgment of strangers, set aside their egos, and are completely aware that this is the only way to get out of a traffic jam. Maybe the people in Mumbai have matured enough to realize that ego-driven traffic fights are not worth it; their ultimate goal is to reach their destination on time.

Window view of Mumbai through rains is a different game altogether. Rains transformed Mumbai into a war zone, with BMC preparations akin to gearing up for battle. Water pumps fought a relentless war against nature's fury. In the midst of this war zone, the chawl aunty remains unaffected by drain water, sitting on a stool or chair, watching her big LED TV with murmura (puffed rice) in her lap, while drain water flows underneath her chair.

Mumbai's spirit remained unbroken during floods. People ventured out with colorful umbrellas and raincoats, each ready to face the challenge. A true Mumbaikar always carried a big umbrella, a symbol of resilience and determination. Rain or shine, they kept moving forward because in Mumbai, life never stopped.

View of Mumbai truly came alive during weekends. The streets transformed into playgrounds where children played football and cricket, their laughter echoing through the neighborhood. Parents gathered, reconnecting with friends while keeping a watchful eye on their young adventurers. The atmosphere was electric, drawing everyone into its vibrant embrace. These weekends were a stark contrast to the structured routines of the workweek, a reminder that life in Mumbai was a dynamic and ever-changing experience. Through the windows of my home, I witnessed the vibrant tapestry of Mumbai, a city that embraced its contradictions and thrived on its diversity.

In the evenings, as I returned to my apartment, I would often find solace in the view from my window. The city lights sparkled like a constellation, a reminder of the dreams and aspirations that lit up Mumbai's skyline. It was a city that never ceased to amaze me, where every window offered a new perspective, and every street corner held a story waiting to be told. I know my story is not going to end here and I am on a quest, so soon I moved on from here.

My Progression Journey through Mumbai's Windows

In Mumbai, it's a fascinating tale of progress and changing priorities. After marriage, we sought a better lifestyle in Mahim West. Big windows in our one BHK offered a view, but it was just another building close enough for a chat, though Mumbai's middle-class society prefers quietude. With curtains drawn, we seldom opened them, consumed by the daily grind.

Suburban Serenity: Mumbai Windows Open to a New Lifestyle

As time passed, we aspired for more and found it in the suburbs. we moved to a house on the 27th floor, boasting a breathtaking creek view. Here windows gave access to an affluent view—pet owners, wise elders, and overseas moms sharing cultural wisdom. It was here that I caught my first glimpse of high-rise life, a journey that began in Mumbai.

Our window became a canvas for sunrises over the creek and fresh air during rains. Privilege became our new norm, sheltered from Mumbai's chaotic drama. Then came the pandemic, and our windows took on

a new role. The city stood still, and we heard birds chirping, cats and dogs wandering freely—an unusual Mumbai scene. The clear sky and pollution-free atmosphere made even the Godrej towers visible clearly; otherwise, they appeared as silhouettes. These moments of stillness and clarity became a cherished part of our Mumbai window saga.

Once we reset our baseline for our lifestyle, our perception of a privileged life also changed. Now, we wanted to live in a better locality with a balcony. We noticed that most of the time, we were spending in the Powai area, which was a happening place. We wanted to move to Hiranandani but settled in nearby similar locality.

As usual, the balcony and window view were deciding factors in choosing the house. Our living room has a decent balcony with an infinity view of empty space and distant flights taking off and landing. From one of the bedrooms, we get the view of the picturesque Powai Lake. This change in scenery has allowed us to leave behind the MHADA buildings and chawls, replacing them with a view of the well-dressed, privileged people dressed as per the occasion.

The view from our windows has a remarkable influence on our daily thoughts. It serves as our portal to the world outside, shaping our perceptions and motivating us to adapt. The sight of people exercising in the park normalizes the idea for us, encouraging us to adopt a healthier lifestyle. The civilized behavior of our neighbors fosters a sense of community and helpfulness, exemplified in our society's cooperative WhatsApp groups.

Through our windows, we glimpse a world of diverse decorations, orderly vehicle parking, children enjoying tennis on their court, and adults engaged in the adult court, equipped with proper attire and gear. Even our local vegetable vendor, the subjiwala, conducts business with utmost politeness, despite opening later in the morning and charging slightly higher prices.

As evening descends, our community gathers to witness the majestic sunset from an elevated vantage point, a truly enchanting spectacle. With the sun's descent, birds return to their nests, and the shroud of night gradually envelops us, bringing a serene conclusion to the day and preparing us for the new dawn.

Our society shines during festive seasons, with professional decorations adorning every corner. The atmosphere exudes organization and adherence to meticulously crafted SOPs, leading me to ponder whether we are merely cogs in an orderly machine. Are we living by predefined rules, managed by society office employees who view us as products following a set path? Perhaps a touch of chaos is necessary to break the monotony. Poha aunty and vada pav uncle could have added vibrancy to the scene. Silence and order can be monotonous, leaving us feeling like we're walking through life on autopilot, devoid of the spontaneity and variety that make existence truly colorful.

Windows to Mumbai's Privileged Paradise: A Journey of Inspiration

Our journey through the windows of Mumbai's ever-changing landscapes continues, and this time, it's a step further into privilege and away from the hustle of ordinary Mumbai life. Another posh society in Powai welcomes us to a world that is not just organized but pulsating with life and motivation.

In this bustling metropolis, where windows frame the journey of life, each pane tells a unique tale—a testament to progress, resilience, and the ever-evolving city of dreams, Mumbai.

As dawn's first light pierces the dark sky, our window frames a mesmerizing sight. Eager beavers, self-motivated and disciplined, populate the garden below. Some early risers engage in an intense workout

session, while others dash to the clubhouse, racing for tennis courts or other sporting arenas. The scene is nothing short of a morning spectacle, akin to an army of individuals ready to conquer the world at sunrise.

And it's not just about exercise; it's the camaraderie that warms the heart. Groups of cheerful ladies exchange greetings as they embark on their morning walks. Trainees enthusiastically greet their trainers in their designated dens, and tennis enthusiasts don their gear to showcase their skills on the courts. By sunrise, the garden is a bustling arena of activity.

The laughing club, spearheaded by a spirited group of elderly members, offers a delightful contrast to the more sedentary folks, inspiring others to join in the fun. Meanwhile, the parking stretch becomes a track for serious runners, and the garden sees joggers enjoying their morning run. The entire scene unfolds like an action-packed movie, with each corner telling a different story.

What's even more delightful is the warmth of the people. They connect effortlessly, striking up conversations with strangers without hesitation. The well-maintained garden offers countless spots for relaxation, where grandfathers take their grandchildren on joy rides, their smiles radiating pure innocence and joy.

Dog lovers and their furry companions embark on strolls, each party vying to lead the way. Parents in night suits rush to catch school buses, juggling their kids' bags and homework. Dropping kids at school becomes a powerful motivation for these early risers.

The morning also steers in a fleet of e-commerce grocery delivery scooters, each racing to fulfill its designated orders. Ola and Uber drivers wait to whisk riders away. It's a sight to behold, a symphony of urban life in full swing.

In this premium world, where every window offers a unique view, balconies are adorned with lush greenery, hanging chairs, and peaceful tea-sipping couples. The 4 BHKs boast larger balconies and lavish interiors that reflect their occupants' tastes.

And when the weekend arrives, it's nothing short of a spectacular extravaganza. The ordinary weekdays don their party hats and step into the limelight. The swimming pool, a sanctuary for kids, sees youngsters of all ages reveling in the joys of childhood. Footballs and cricket bats take center stage as kids run amok while parents reconnect and catch up.

Weekends here aren't mere breaks; they are vibrant celebrations of life itself. They remind us that no matter how hectic the workweek may be, the promise of an electrifying weekend always awaits, urging us to join the lively, cinematic tribe and partake in the joyous spectacle of life in all its glory.

Mumbai Through Windows: Embarking on a Quest for the Wonderworld

In this exploration of Mumbai through its windows, we've traversed the spectrum of lifestyles and experiences that define this city. From the humble chawls to the plush apartments of Powai, each window opens a portal into a unique Mumbai story. The city, with its organized chaos and vibrant diversity, remains a source of inspiration, motivation, and, above all, an ever-evolving narrative that unfolds behind every windowpane. Mumbai, with all its contrasts and charms, continues to be a city of dreams, and these windows offer us glimpses into the dreams, struggles, and triumphs of its people.