Mumbai

Important Indian urban centres all have a story to tell, but Mumbai is still special. The narrow streets, the dirtiness and the poverty of this cramped metropolis is a common feature, yet it arguably is the country's most important hub. The lifestyle and culture is so fascinating that it attracts people like moths to light.

Bombay along with capital Calcutta were the pride of British India. The place continued to prosper and rise unlike Calcutta, whose economic growth specially, started to stagnate from the 70's. Bombay thus took over as the commercial capital, and along with the hugely profitable entertainment industry and attractive opportunities, became the temptation of all the economic classes. Needless to say, the number of migrants every year rose to infinite levels and the lack of space invented hassles. But it still survives even as population promises to wreak havoc on the city every year.

Skyscrapers and pretty British structures give it the most international look, the fast life and the ultimate elite culture today makes it the eyeball of the youth. City life never ceases to stop - even the recent attacks only provided a break of two days. And still Mumbai is in no way mechanical or robotic - it has got life, charm and meaning. The proud Mumbaikars are honest and principled, and value tradition.

The combination of its features gives rise to an emotional connect. In the end, you start loving the life of Mumbai - with all its imperfections and fascinations, it is still 'the place to be'.