| Entertainment Mumabi |
Nightlife |
| Nightlife in Mumbai is best described by the fact that Mumbai is a city that never sleeps. Trendy 'pubs' and discos or nightclubs are located in the Fountain/Colaba area and the suburbs too have plenty to offer. Many restaurants double up as bars and nightclubs and stay open till late hours. For those on a budget, the local beaches such as Chowpatty and Juhu have a life of their own during the nights, and often people are found strolling on the beachfronts enjoying the cool breeze. Both serve as playgrounds, open-air restaurants and amusements parks. |
| Bollywood and Movies |
| India's answer to Hollywood, Bollywood films have a fantastic mix of action, violence, music, dance, romance and an almost non-existent story. Hindi films are a part and parcel of life not just in Mumbai but probably all over India. The industry rooted in Mumbai, produces over 200 films a year and is the largest maker of films anywhere in the world. The film stars or as they known as in 'filmi' parlance, the heroes and heroines are treated as mega-stars and likened to gods and goddesses. The masses adore their 'masala' films because they allow the people of India to escape into a fantasy and hang on to their dreams. |
| Every movie is punctuated with at least half a dozen songs and elaborate dance numbers, plus an equal number of costume and location changes. Given this, it is no wonder that the musical success of a film is vital to its overall success. The formula for a 'hit' film has been tried and tested hundreds of times, and many movies may be actual copies of Hollywood originals. However, nowadays they boast of outstanding production values, with breathtaking cinematography, intricate stunts and action shots, and a sophistication and slickness previously missing. |
If you haven't seen one, it's worth a shot. Ask around for the latest good flicks running in a movie theatre near you. A visit to the sets -- a wonderfully chaotic experience -- is possible by contacting the managers or public relations officers of the following studios: Film City in Goregaon, Natraj in Andheri and RK Studio in Chembur. |
| Theatre and Music |
| Traditionally, Mumbai has always had a strong local following for both music and theatre. In fact, theatre performances in Marathi, Hindi, Gujarati and English are of a very high standard. Both serious plays and lighter 'spoofs' or farcical comedies are performed. Usually plays are held on the weekends, as in many cases the actors have other professions as well. Check the local papers for the latest listings as plays are performed all over the city with a number of theatre halls in the suburbs as well. The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) at Nariman Point and the Prithvi Theatre in Juhu (with an excellent caf�) have regular performances. |
| Imagine you can hear the lilting sounds of a sitar against the gentle lapping of waves! Music is found all over the city, and the sheer number and variety of concerts will satisfy both western and Indian music lovers. Indian classical music is best heard outdoors in performances usually held in the winter months. The best and most talented artistes perform here, with such arresting backdrops as the Gateway of India and the Banganga Tank. There is no shortage of pop, rock, and jazz too. Many restaurants and venues have live performances by local and international artistes, all providing a pulsating and lively atmosphere. Check local papers for concerts and the NCPA programme as well. |
| For music, dance, drama and the movies, the Government of India's tourist office publishes a fortnightly guide with the latest information of what's on. |
| Festivals |
| Banganga Festival |
| Usually held in January, organised by the MTDC, this two-day festival of music is held at the historic Banganga Tank.. Performers are usually exponents of classical vocal and instrumental music, and its beautiful setting and soothing music provide a charming ambience. Proceeds from the sale of tickets go towards the conservation, upkeep and maintenance of the Banganga temple complex. |
| Elephanta Festival |
| Against the dramatic fa�ade of the cave temples, this festival of dance and music is held in the early part of the year, usually in February. Also organised by the MTDC, the event involves a boat ride from the Gateway of India to the Elephanta Islands. |
| Kala Ghoda Festival |
| Every Sunday from November to January, at Mumbai in the Kala Ghoda area (now known as K. Dubash Marg), near the Jehangir Art Gallery is transformed into a street bazaar of arts and crafts. Food, handicrafts and performances are all part of this daylong event starting from 10 am and ending at 9 pm, organised by MTDC. |
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