A dream called Mumbai
By Malay Vyas
As I looked out of the window of my bogie, I saw a horizon littered with lights, reflecting its shimmering beauty into the dark waters of the Arabian sea. As I neared the horizon, a horizon that turns dreams into reality, buildings, a Chlorophyllic green like they've been washed every single day, started emerging on one side. On the other side, bright white lights of the stations blinked by. With each station waving goodbye, the magnitude of it all- the building, the blinding light- kept increasing.
Just when you think there couldn't be a more compact society, you'd be surprised. Every square inch gobbled by humanity. When I got off at the station, facing the same humanity, I realised that I am now a part of it. I felt like a spec in hay.
Pushing the thoughts to the back of my head, I sighed with relief at the sight of a new, yet familiar concept, the humble autorickshaw. Before I could absorb the tall buildings, take in the broad roads, and adjust to the city’s flashing lights, I reached my destination.
A few weeks passed. I discovered that the place I lived in was practically part of a slum. We were so close, yet so far. It was as if the city understood, respected and cared about everyone. And so did the people. I felt proud to be a part of it.
Months went by. And I realised that to reach the glorious parts of the city, you had to pass through the ugliest ailes of humanity. Disparity over something so meaningless. The city keeps reminding us that life is a struggle until you make it. You can't stop, otherwise you'll be stuck in the murky streets before you even catch a glimpse of the glories this city can offer. I fell in love.
Completed a year. The people of this city are not what they seem. The ‘stalwarts’ would stab you in the back, just for fun; while the “strugglers’ would have your back, because they know how gruelling the climb to the top is. It’s about not stopping. Being at it no matter what. With that, I lived. And this city taught me how to.
W&E with Dhruv Sehgal
Anushka Sharma talks with Dhruv Sehgal about his journey in becoming one of the most influential writers-actors working in the industry right now.
Edited by Kalpesh Chaudhary
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First Ballad & Last Negative
By Sharang Sharma
First Ballad and Last Negative is the diary I let people read. An invitation to the sands of my world. This is my first Ballad. Encapsulated. Safe.