Only separated by about 6km are the mansions of Bollywood movie stars such as Shahrukh Khan and tiny homes of the million inhabitants of Dharvi, one of Asia's largest slums. Both are economic powerhouses of Bombay, but the density and the economics per person are world's apart.
We jumped straight into it on our visit to Dharavi, walking down a nearly dark concrete pathway about a meter wide. On either side are homes that appear to be one room each and there are 2-3 stories. It's bustling. Kids running around giggling and adults headed here and there.
A guy pointed us in a direction that led out to a large field full of kids playing. We later learned that it used to be the trash dump.
A bit later, we were approached by a guy who wanted to give us a tour. I wanted to see the recycling area, so we suggested a tour of just that, but he threw in more for Rs. 800 as it was on the way. He was very knowledgeable and it was nice to have the insights from a Dharavi native and get to support a bit.
As Bandra is quite close, you can pop over there after. We did separate days as we weren't so organized and had the pleasure of car and driver.
Bandra is a well to do area with a few historical sights, spots to sit or jog along the water, and lots of cafes and shops.
We started at the Basilica of our Lady of the Mount and then wandered down to the Bandra Fort, full of young couples displaying various degrees of PDA (one was covered by a shawl).
Next, we drove past Sharuk Khan's house, where there was a Chaatwala out front along with many selfie-takers, and Jogger's park to Carter road.
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| Inside of Basilica of our Lady of the Mount |
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| Basilica of our Lady of the Mount |
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| Prayer tiles for fame and forgiveness |
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| Sealink bridge is a cool way to travel |
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| Couples spaced appropriately for privacy |
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| Along Carter road |
From there we headed to a main shopping street and then wandered down to Candies for a snack.
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