Trip to Mumbai

It was my first visit to Mumbai after I left for Australia earlier in 2007. It was a long flight and towards the end I could no longer wait to step into my land. What seemingly has been known to me as my home, in that moment felt unpredictable, as the flight touched its base in Mumbai..the city that never sleeps.
Everything about the city was overwhelming, although i had been familiar with it for years. speeding rickshaws, to the road-side paanipuriwalas, ever flowing traffic to the lakhs of people going about their lives, the smell of the jelabees to the latest malls...there were many things happening at the same time.
Its bizarre when I think of the number of relatives, friends and families, acquaintances I know back home, from the maid to my gulli friend, from mum's kitty party aunties to the colony folks. I know them all, and it feels the same way when I spoke to them even after a year long gap. The latest filmi gossips, to stuffing diners, visit to the unsophisticated indian habits and stories of american multinational success are all a part of the Mumbai package.
I dont know how often one would visit Mumbai but i think its important for me to visit home for fairly straightforward reasons. Its a reminder of what I aspire for. we have left our comfort zone in quest of something bigger, and if we lost our way in the middle we sure would have a reminder of the very reason of where we are today.
Its also a reminder of our secure base, our roots, our values, our family..to feel the warmth, the love and belongingness.
Mumbai presents with its own unique flavour..its a need to feel that flavour. Mumbai has the space for everyone, irrespective of whether you are rich, middle class or poor. you would always feel at home, and never be a stranger. Mumbai is surviving each day, with a hope on everyone's face. thats the hope i look for...