Leading newspapers and television are reporting that the recent incidents of Mumbai have uplifted the roots of Cosmopolitan spirit and put the entire country to disgrace. Having spent a considerable time in this city, the memories I carry are of 26th July 2005 - the terrible Tuesday that brought loss of lives, economy and loved ones. But at the same time also reinstated the spirit of “humanity” in the city – A city that is better known for its “survival of fittest” strategy.
Never in my life, have I seen such a poignant effort by people to help each other and come out of the trauma. My house was flooded as well and I had to spend the night at a neighbors place and for the first time in my life, I felt what it means to be “homeless”. My architecture and planning school never instilled the compassion to experience the shame, disgrace and loss of dignity that several citizens have to face daily when they sleep without a roof over their heads, till I experienced Mumbai !
So today, it is difficult to come to terms that Mumbai’s cosmopolitan spirit is a lie! Indeed it is not. It is a political gimmick of handful of people who are trying hard to regain political vote banks for power. Let me tell you that the common – Marathi manus is least interested in this vengeance. Mumbai undoubtedly is the home to the taxiwalas, dabbawals, and the street vendors who continue to serve the city 24 X 7 and make it the economic magnet! It belongs to the people who for years have filled its swampy marshes and replaced them with the firm foundation to hold gigantic structures! Or to those who hang on to the speeding train compartments because the show must go on! To those who come for a short time, make a fortune and remain indebted to the city for their lives! Mumbaikar has learnt the hard way and is definitely not interested in cheap politics.
