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91-Year-Old Gulzar Captures Mumbai's Evolving Spirit
14 Jun
Summary
- Gulzar's new book preserves the Mumbai that lives within him.
- He reflects on Mumbai's transformation from industrial to modern.
- The poet finds beauty and life at the city's street level.
Veteran poet Gulzar, aged 91, presents 'Aamchi Mumbai,' a collection of 36 poems and 25 stories. This work is not an attempt to define Mumbai in 2026, but rather to preserve the city as it resides within him, a vibrant tapestry of migrants, mill workers, and survivors.
Gulzar reminisces about a bygone era of Bombay, characterized by its textile mills, active labor unions, and a palpable dignity among its working class. He recalls spirited rallies and engaging literary discussions held on trams, a stark contrast to the city's present-day transformation.
While acknowledging the dramatic shifts, from industrial centers to modern malls and a transformed skyline, Gulzar notes that Mumbai has retained its progressive spirit. He finds that the city continues to inspire dreams and look outwards, with some modern changes, like the view of Haji Ali, adding to its beauty.
His observations delve into the lives of the marginalized—beggars, footpath dwellers, and scavengers. Gulzar emphasizes the importance of staying attuned to the city's pulse, stressing that life's narratives are not found in showrooms but are continuously unfolding around us.
Gulzar's work highlights the resilience and the 'living' aspect of Mumbai. He recounts a story of a boy who draws his own chalk outline nightly, only to rise anew each morning, symbolizing survival and a zest for life. The poet’s focus remains on the human struggle and the capacity for joy amidst hardship.
Poetry, for Gulzar, is about capturing live moments and evoking genuine feeling, not didacticism. He shares an example of a poem about a lone leaf on a submerged tree whispering reassurance, illustrating his search for profound emotional resonance in expression.
Reflecting on his decades-long relationship with Mumbai, Gulzar likens it to a protective elder sibling. He acknowledges that both he and the city have evolved, shaped by each other and the continuous influx of migrants who leave their indelible marks, fostering a dynamic coexistence.
