Mumbai Travel Guide - Mumbai Magic Masala

BMC Online services

2011-11-22T11:27:00.001+05:30

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Official Website - http://www.mcgm.gov.in

Online Services:

Pay Property Tax Online - https://aquaptax.mcgm.gov.in/ptax/citizenptax/

Pay Water Bills Online - https://aquaptax.mcgm.gov.in/aqua/citizenportal/

Property Card Online - http://prcmumbai.nic.in/prcmumbai/jsp/propertyNew.jsp

Top 10 call centers of Mumbai

2011-10-31T13:14:00.000+05:30

1. Intelenet Global
Intelenet Towers
Plot CST No. 1406 – A28,
Mindspace, Malad West
Mumbai 400064
Tel: +91 – 22 – 66776000
Fax: +91 – 22 – 66778210
Email: sandeep_a@intelenetglobal.com
http://www.intelenetglobal.com/

2. IBM Daksh
Prism TowersIBM Global Process Services
7th Flr, B Wing, Prism Tower, Mindspace, Goregaon ( West), Mumbai 400064
Tel: 91-22-40366466

MagnusIBM Global Process Services
5th Floor, Magnus Towers, MindSpace, Malad (West), Mumbai - 400064
Tel: 91-22-40605677
http://www.daksh.com/

3. Sitel
4A Logitech Park
Parke Davis Complex (Main)
Sakinaka, Andheri Kurla Road
Andheri (East)
Mumbai 400 072
Phone: +91 22 6643 5700
Fax: +91 22 2856 1659
mum.careers@sitel.com
http://www.sitel.com/

4. 3G Global Services
Hutchison Global Services Pvt Ltd
Spectrum Towers, Mindspace,
Chincholi Bunder Link Road,
Malad (West), Mumbai - 400 064
Phone: +91 (22) 6676 3333
http://www.3globalservices.com/

5. Firstsource Solutions Ltd.
6th Floor Peninsula Chambers
Ganpatrao Kadam Marg
Lower Parel
Mumbai 400 013, India
Tel: +91 -9167070761
Email: mycareer.mumbai@firstsource.com
http://www.firstsource.com/

6. Aegis Limited
Essar House, 13th Floor
11 KK Marg, Mahalaxmi
Mumbai 400034
Maharashtra
India
Phone: +91 (22) 6660 1100
Fax: +91 (22) 2354 4490
http://aegisglobal.com/

7. MphasiS
Infinity IT Park
Unit No. 101 & 201, Building No.4
239, General A K Vaidya Marg
Dindoshi, Malad(East)
Mumbai - 400 097.
Fax:+91 22 6788 4000
+91 22 6788 4888
http://www.mphasis.com/

8. Zenta (Acquired by Accenture)
Fairmont, High Street
Hiranandani Business Park, Powai
Mumbai - 400 076

Winchester Building, 6th Floor
High Street
Hiranandani Business Park, Powai
Mumbai - 400 076
contact@zenta.com
http://zenta.com/

9. Epicenter Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Salasar Business Park, Off 150 Feet Flyover Road,
Bhayander (West), Thane 401 101,
Maharashtra, India.
Tel : + 91-22-6758 2800 (Board Line)
+ 91-22-6758 2850
Fax : + 91-22-6758 2900
E-Mail : info@epicentertechnology.com
http://www.epicentertechnology.com/

10. Wipro BPO

Hiranandani Building, 3rd Floor,
Powai, Mumbai-400076
Landmark Dmart
Tel: 022-30924798
www.careers.wipro.com/wbpo

International days for October

2011-10-21T08:47:00.000+05:30

October 1 :
International Music Day

International Day for Older Persons
National Voluntary Blood Donation Day
World Habitat Day (1st Monday)

October 2 :
International Day of Non-Violence
Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti
Anti Leprosy Day
World Wide Life Week

October 3 :
World Habitat Day

October 4 :
World Animal Welfare Day
International Mental Health Week
World Space Week

October 8 :
Indian Air Force Day

October 9 :
World Post Office day
National Postal Week

October 10 :
World Mental Health Day
World Disaster Reduction Day

October 12 :
World Sight Day

October 13 :
UN International Day for National disaster reduction

October 14 :
World Standards Day

October 15 :
World White Cane Day (guiding the Blind)

October 16 :
World Food Day
World Anesthesiologists Day

October 17 :
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 24 :
UN Day
World Development Day

October 30 :
World Thrift Day

October 31 :
National Integration

Hoax emails for Job offer

2011-10-20T20:39:00.001+05:30

There is an new scam going around where people have been receiving emails informing about job interview for major IT companies like TCS, Wipro, IBM etc. The scammers are taking information from job sites like Monster and Naukri. The email will ask the recipient to deposit amount ranging from 6000 to 100000 to his bank account for cost towards travel tickets etc. Many people have fallen prey to this 'Fake offer for job'. Please ignore such emails. Companies will never ask you to pay for interview.

These emails come from free email accounts like gmail, rediffmail, yahoo etc. But sometimes hackers are able to send email using actual company names example xxx@IBM.com.

The email will more or less look as below.

Hi,

Congrats, Your resume has been shortlisted for first round of interview.

Job Description
Experiance - 0 to 8 years
Salary - 3.5 lakh to 10 lakh per annum.

Your interview is scheduled on Monday. To book your interveiw and to make the travel arrangement, you will need to deposit Rs.6000/- in Bank A/c.No.xxxxx

Warning Mumbaikars New ways by Gangs to Rob you

2011-10-13T17:02:00.003+05:30

Now a days, thieves and robbers are becoming more innovative. They are using different techniques to rob you. Please be aware that new gangs are using small children for this purpose. Below are true incidents.

Incident 1
My Aunt was shopping in Monday Bazaar which is in Malad west, Mumbai. She saw a small kid crying bitterly. My Aunt felt pity for the child and carried her. Coincidentally there was a police van standing few meters away. My Aunt started to move towards the Police van, so that she could handover the child to them. She was trying to help as she thought that the child was lost in the crowded market place. As she was moving towards the Police van, a lady snatched the kid from her hand and rushed away. My Aunt was surprised only to realise that the purse she was holding was having a cut at the bottom. The child she was carrying had cleverly sliced her purse without the notice of my Aunt who was concentrating on helping the kid. Fortunately the child was not able to take the items and cash from the purse.

Incident 2
I heard from others about this. The new technique of Robbers is to keep a child crying with a note in the hand with the address of its home. In good faith, some person will see the child and take it to the home as mentioned in the piece of paper. Here there will be a gang waiting. They will rob, rape and may kill you too.

Incident 3
My friend who was from Delhi had come for a project to Mumbai. At 6:00pm he was returning to his hotel from customer’s office. He was suddenly stopped by a man who confronted him asking “Tu ne mere bibi ko kyon cheda” (Why did you tease my wife). My friend protested saying he did not do any such thing. The man insisted and said he should talk to his wife directly. My friend knew he was innocent, so he when with the man, who took him to the side of the road, behind a big tree. There were 2 men’s standing with knifes. They robbed him of Wallet, watch, mobile and gold he was wearing. All this happened within 1 min. My friend was too shocked to even shout or raise an alarm.

Be very careful and inform the Police immediately in case you suspect a child crying is motivated by gang of robbers. Be alert and don’t just let emotions overcome your intellect. When in crowded or deserted place ensure your ‘Presence of Mind’. Don’t be busy on cell phone or lost in thoughts. Robbers and thieves are lurking around in Trains, Buses, Crowded places looking for a Bakra.

Three Apples that changed our world

2011-10-10T14:19:00.001+05:30

1. First is the apple which Eve offered Adam as per the Old Testament in the Bible. As per Bible, the first two human beings on earth were Adam and Eve. God gave them all that was required for their existence, but forbid them from eating the knowledge Apple from the tree. The devil in the form of snake lured Eve to eat the apple, who in turn convinced Adam to eat the apple. This is considered to be the first sin where man disobeyed the will of God.

2. Second Apple was the Apple which fell from the tree and Isaac Newton discovered the theory of gravity. Some cartoon show the apple actually falling on his head. Well, this is myth as Newton theory of gravitation was built over a long period of time and his study. Apple falling from the tree was just an example which Isaac Newton used to explain the theory. The second apple actually changed the world as this discovery was the base for many other innovation and realizations.

3. Third Apple was the Macintosh (first computer with beautiful typography) which was founded by Steve Jobs. He was the visionary who introduced ipod, iphone, ipad to humanity. These inventions changed the way we communicate and access information. Many other brands took queue from these inventions and tried to introduce their own version of ipod, iphone, ipad. However 'Apple' was the brand which was always preferred over the rest. He was an adopted child and college dropout. Infact, he was a dropout by choice.

In the words of Steve Jobs

"So, I decided to drop out and trust that it would all work out OK. It was pretty scary at the time, but looking back, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The minute I dropped out, I could stop taking the required classes that didn't interest me, and begin dropping in on the ones that looked interesting."

"I was lucky — I found what I loved to do early in life. Woz and I started Apple in my parents garage when I was 20. We worked hard, and in 10 years, Apple had grown from just the two of us in a garage into a $2-billion company with over 4,000 employees. We had just released our finest creation — the Macintosh — a year earlier, and I had just turned 30. And, then I got fired. How can you get fired from a company you started? Well, as Apple grew we hired someone who I thought was very talented to run the company with me, and for the first year or so things went well. But then our visions of the future began to diverge and, eventually we had a falling out. When we did, our Board of Directors sided with him. So, at 30, I was out. And very publicly out. What had been the focus of my entire adult life was gone, and it was devastating."

"During the next five years, I started a company named NeXT, another company named Pixar, and fell in love with an amazing woman who would become my wife. Pixar went on to create the world’s first computer animated feature film, Toy Story, and is now the most successful animation studio in the world. In a remarkable turn of events, Apple bought NeXT, I returned to Apple, and the technology we developed at NeXT is at the heart of Apple's current renaissance. And, Laurene and I have a wonderful family together"

"About a year ago, I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a scan at 7:30 in the morning, and it clearly showed a tumor on my pancreas. I didn't even know what a pancreas was. The doctors told me this was almost certainly a type of cancer that is incurable, and that I should expect to live no longer than three to six months. My doctor advised me to go home and get my affairs in order, which is doctor's code for prepare to die. It means to try to tell your kids everything you thought you'd have the next 10 years to tell them in just a few months. It means to make sure everything is buttoned up, so that it will be as easy as possible for your family. It means to say your goodbyes"

Steve Jobs died on October 07, 2011

(This is a prepared text of the Commencement address delivered by Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer and of Pixar Animation Studios, on June 12, 2005.) Source: www. stanford.edu

4. Forth Apple - YET TO COME.

Happy Dussehra

2011-10-06T13:35:00.003+05:30

On the occasion of the day which signifies victory over evil, would like to wish all fellow Indians a 'Happy Dussehra'

May the evils of Terrorism, corruption, injustice, violence, women and child abuse, etc be wiped of the face of this earth.

Pooja Thali

On this day, workers irrespective of their profession do Pooja of their tools and ask God to bless them in the year ahead with Prosperity and Gain.

Works mans Tools

India Govt to launch Rs.1600 computer on Oct 5

2011-09-29T15:08:00.002+05:30

The much-awaited $35 (Rs.1600) computing-cum-access device, to be made available to students right from primary schools to universities, will be launched on October 5.

Read More Time of India

A portion of Holy Girdle of Mother Mary in Mumbai

2011-09-26T08:11:00.000+05:30

The St.Peter's Jacobite Syrian Church at Malad West, in Mumbai was raised to fame with the establishment of the Holy SOONORO. This is the only Church outside of Kerala where the Holy Soonoro has been kept.

The Holy Soonoro casket is unveiled for public veneration once a year on Sept. 1 and kept open for eight days lent. On Sept.8, the casket containing the Soonoro is taken out of the shrine, giving the devotees an opportunity for viewing and veneration and to seek blessing. after which it is closed again.

Hundreds of people, irrespective of their caste, creed visit this church and receive blessings through the prayer of intercession of Mother Mary. On Wednesday from dawn to dusk devotees come to the Holy Soonoro shrine for meditation and prayer and return blessed. On every Friday evening, along with the Holy Qurbono, there is prayer of intercession in the name of Holy Mother. Hundreds of devotees attend the Holy Qurbono, meditate and pray from 7 or 9 consecutively and receive blessings. On every Sunday and second Saturday along with the Holy Qurbono, prayers of intercession is held at the Holy Soonoro Shrine.

As per historical record, Mother Mary, Mother of Jesus Christ, breathed her last at the age of 51. The disciples of Jesus came to know of Mother Mary's demise by the Holy Spirit and were lifted by the clouds to the burial place. They laid Her to rest in Gethsamana garden very near to the place where her son Jesus prayed. Her body was lifted to Heaven by Angles on the third day on a chariot of fire. St. Thomas who could arrive there from India only at that time, wanted a proof to convince others that he had witnessed the event, cried to Holy Mother to give him some evidence in blessing. The chariot posed for a moment in mid sky and a clear evidence a portion of the waist band (girdle) and the veil fell into the hands of St. Thomas.

St. Thomas carried this previous treasure to India and performed many miracles before he died. In 394 AD.

Is the Auto Rickshaw strike justified?

2011-09-22T15:16:00.000+05:30

The 3 day Auto Rickshaw strike in western line of Mumbai ended today. I usually take the Auto to office, but for the last 3 days was forced to take the BEST bus. The buses were crowded and lots of traffic jams on the road. Reason, probably because people were using their cars instead of Auto's.

Why do the Auto Rickshaw drivers go on strike?

The reasons are many. The common one is for increase in fare. This time the Auto drivers went on strike to protest against RTO's action against Auto Rickshaws, whose meters were tampered. Now this is innovative, going on strike to protest against tampered meters being removed. Few weeks ago, I am sure these same Auto Rickshaw drivers would have supported Anna Hazare on his fight against corruption. Is this not double standard "It is OK for me to be corrupt, but government officials should not be corrupt".

Auto Rickshaw of Mumbai

The RTO in Mumbai have implemented many measures to curb malpractices by Auto and Taxi drivers. Some are.

1. Taking seriously complaints from Commuters against Auto and taxi drivers.

2. Providing toll free number and internet provision to public for filing complaint against Auto Rickshaw and Taxi drivers.

3. Checking meters periodically to ensure meters are not being tampered.

Most of the Taxi drivers will only take you to places they want to go and it’s very common to see them refusing passengers. This is against the rules; however this continues to occur in Mumbai.

Auto Rickshaw Driver

Now let’s talk from the point of view of Auto Rickshaw driver.

There are 60,000 Auto Rickshaws in Western suburbs out of which 20,000 belong to union. Most of the Auto Rickshaw drivers are poor and there is very less done by the government to better their life. Auto rickshaw drivers in other major cities like Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, etc will not even use their meter and quote exorbitant amount for a ride, especially if you are from out of town. Where as Auto rickshaw drivers in Mumbai always charge customers based on the meter reading.

Driving in the traffic jam and polluted roads of Mumbai is not easy for these drivers. The pot holes in the road cause them to have back problem and health issues. Besides they are doing a risky job, as their life is always at risk of speeding cars, buses and trucks and get beaten up by public in case of accident.

Although their strike is not justified, we need to also look at the human aspects of the life and the condition under which these drivers operate. Although cheating is not justified, we need to still look at all aspects. Most of the citizens in Mumbai have expressed their angry view on the strike, but has anyone listened to the other side? (Auto Drivers).

Meter used in Mumbai for calculating fare

Last day of Mount Mary Bandra Fair 2011

2011-09-18T19:25:00.001+05:30

Today we visited the Mount Mary feast in the morning at 10am. At first the crowd seamed to be less, but later the crowd picked up. There was heavy crowds at the shrine and people had to stand in huge queue to be able to visit the Church of Mount Mary. People were managed well by the volunteers and police.

Statue of Mother Mary opposite the Church, facing the Arabian Sea

Devotees from Mumbai and around Mumbai travel for hours together, just to stand in front of Mother Mary and ask her to grant their wishes. This faith continues to bring crowd of people each year for this feast. The feast of Mount Mary is celebrate for 7 days. People of all faith and religion visit this shrine.

Crowd of people standing for your their turn to enter the Church

There were many stall of hawkers selling channa's, rosaries, halvas, children toys etc. It was a sunny day, in spite of the sweat, people were enjoying the occasion. After visiting the church devotees entered the fair which is a stretch of around 1 KM.
BEST had special buses taking people from Bandra west station to Mount Mary church and back.

Devotees offer Wax candes

Pilgrim offer wax articles to denote their wishes. Example, you would offer wax heart, if you have heart problem -- dolly, if you wish to have a baby -- house, if you wish to buy a house etc.

Stalls selling rosaries and other holy items

Wax candles, flowers, wax statues etc.

Main Church of Mount Mary

Hawkers selling sweets

Feel like Plucking the grapes

2011-09-16T22:05:00.000+05:30

I had visited Shirdi and on the way stopped by at Nasik. Could not resist and stepped into one of the farms which had delicious ripped grapes hanging from its wine.

Delicious Grapes of Nasik

Owner Proudly showing off the fruits of her labor

Nasik is also famous by the name 'Wine capital of India'. It is on the Western Ghats and on the banks of the Godavari river. The most famous grapes cultivated in Nasik is call 'Table grapes'. Table Grapes are exported to Europe, Middle East and Asia. Sula Wines is the most popular wine brand in India and is exported all over the world.

The Lady on the right is the wife of the owner of this particular plantation and was excited to show us around . She is proudly standing and holding grapes in her hand.

Grapes everywhere, also hidden in the leaves

Bye Bye Ganpati Bappa

2011-09-13T21:33:00.000+05:30

Last Day of Ganesh visarjan. Idols going for visarjan on Marve Road, Malad West, Mumbai. The idols are being taken to Marve beach and Juhu beach for immersion. Crowds of people accompanied Bappa on his final journey only to return next year again to bring joy and prosperity to his devotees.

Beautiful Mukut (Crown) of Ganpati Bappa

Devotees of Ganpati Bappa singing bhajan on the Road at the junction between Marve road and Link road

Ganpati Bappa giving blessing to all his devotees

25 feet tall idol of Ganpati

Gold colored Ganpati 15 feet tall

10 feet tall Ganpati studded with 250000 quantity artificial diamond

Ganpati along with his favorite savari

Trucks of people accompany their favorite God to Marve beach for immersion

Banjo party. Moving trolley ahead of the truck.

Ganpati going only to return next year

Virar a Hot location for Real Estate near Mumbai

2011-09-11T10:43:00.000+05:30

Virar, which is about 50 KM from Mumbai is turning to be a hot destination for real estate. People who cannot afford house in Mumbai are moving here. I myself have booked a 2BHK flat next to Global city in Virar West. Few years ago, it was impossible to travel to Virar, however now, there are 2 way rail track and good frequency of trains going to Virar. From Mumbai, you can take a train from Churchgate railway station or any other station which falls on the western line. It takes around 1 hour 30 min from Churchgate station and 30 min from Borivali station to reach Virar.

Virar Railway Station

I stay in Malad and work in Andheri. It takes me 1 hour 30min to reach home as I stay in Orlem. From Malad station, I need to take bus to Orlem. What if your house is close to Virar station? It will take the same time to reach home at Virar, think about it.

Trains at Virar station

Virar was under CIDCO governance, but now is being transitioned to Municipal Corporation ( Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation - VVMC). Due to this transition, it is expected that there will be big focus on public development like road, water, electricity etc. These amenities are even there today, however it will improve. Many big builders from Mumbai like Bhoomi, Rustumjee, Lodha etc. have started construction. Property which was available for lest than Rs.2000 per sq.ft. is now quoted at 3400 per sq.ft. and above. It is estimated that by diwali, this amount will cross Rs.4000 per sq.ft. Many buildings are under construction and position is estimated by 2013. I would recommend investing here now, if you have the funds. This is going to be the next hot destination as property in Mumbai is becoming very expensive and this is going to be the next choice for buyer.

Beautiful sky above Pile of dirt below

2011-09-07T20:03:00.000+05:30

Today is the 7th day of Ganesh immersion (visarjan). I was on my way home. As usual, I stood at Larsen and Toubro Gate number 5 bus stop and was waiting for my friend to come and pick me up in his car. While I was waiting, I took a moment to look at the sky. I could see the sun peeping out of the dark clouds. It was interesting, as in a busy city like Mumbai, no one has the time to gaze at the sky. Everyone is rushing to go some where.

Beautiful Sky

Then I looked below and suddenly my emotions changed from being happy to getting angry. There was a huge pile of dirty just next to me. I was standing on the foot path and this is definitely no place to collect dirt. Then, as a typical Mumbaikar, just ignored it and stepped into my friends car, who has come to pick me up.

Like many Mumbaikars and as a sincere citizen, I pay my taxes on time. We expect the government and the local bodies to do their part.

Please voice your views on this topic.

Pile of Dirty on the Foot Path

No annoying calls from call center from 27 Sep 2011

2011-09-06T13:13:00.002+05:30

Telecom Regulator Authority of India (Trai) would be enforcing norms to curb the menace of annoying calls and SMSes from companies calling to sell you something.

Those registered with the National Customer Preference Registry (Do Not Call Registry or DNCR) will be benefited from this enforcement.

Department of telecommunication (DoT) has provided '140' series numbers for companies using call centers to make commercial calls. Any call which begins with '140' will be a commercial call and customers can choose to accept or reject the call. This means that those who register for DNCR will not get these call and those who do not register, will still be able to know if the call is a commercial call.

A fine of Rs.2.5 lakh will be imposed on defaulting telemarketing companies.

Calling by the telemarketing companies cannot be done between 9pm and 9am.

Customer can choose 'Partially Blocked' category, in which case they would receive SMSes only from the categories selected by them. Trai has created seven categories (banking and financial products, real estate, education, health, consumer goods, automobiles, communication and entertainment, tourism and leisure).

Transactional messages such as messages from banks, service providers, airlines, railways etc will be out of the ambit of the new regulations.

Kanheri caves in National Park Borivali

2011-08-29T12:41:00.000+05:30

Kanheri caves are situated in the suburbs of Mumbai. It is located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (also known as Borivali National Park). This is probably the only green patch surviving within Mumbai which is maintained by the government, to ensure tourist coming here, do not alter the environment or cause harm to animals.

2 million visitors visit National Park and Kanheri caves every year.

The Kanheri Caves are a protected archaeological site. The caves were sculpted by Buddhist residents around the 1st century BC. The word Kanheri comes from the 'Sanskrit' word 'Krishnagiri' which means 'Black Mountain'.

The place is very close to Borivali Railway station. Auto's are available out of the station who will take you to National park for around Rs.15. It’s are great place to come for a day for Picnic, preferably with your own vehicle. Visitors are not allowed to stay near the caves after 6pm as wild animals come down to drink water.

Please share your experience too if you have visited Borivali National park or Kanheri Caves.

Have we forgotten our childhood?

2011-08-25T13:30:00.000+05:30

I was on my way back home from work, when I witnessed some children playing in the sand. At first I was angry and thought in my mind, where are their parent? How can they allow their child to play in sand this way? Are they not worried that their child’s is too dirty now and will require a very good bath and lots of soap to wash the clothes? By the way, this is not sand from the beach, but it is black sand used for construction.

Then suddenly I realized my mind taking me back in past when I was a kid. At that time we did not have TV's, internet, video games etc. We used to play out door which involved games like Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Hide and Seek etc. Going still back in time, I remember myself playing in the mud and coming home with soiled clothes and had to take scolding from my mom.

Will our children ever enjoy this type of outdoor enjoyment or just continue to live their lives indoor with latest gadgets, new video games, social networking (facebook, twitter), fast food like Mac Donald, KFC etc? Probably never.

What about us. Will we every be able to like the care free life not worrying about the future like the children in the picture? Or will we continue to run the rat race.

In Mumbai (other cities too), we wake us early only to catch the 7.12am local train, rush to work. Work for 8 to 9 hours and then rush back home. Eat our dinner and go to sleep. We continue to do this and realize that we have spend a lot of years working hard for money, and when we are old, we are spending all that money to stay healthy as we have inherited various sickness and ailments due to our hectic schedule.

So enjoy your life, save for the future but also spend on yourself and family. Take all the holidays your company gives you (do not accumulate leaves for encashment). Spend quality time with family and loved ones. It’s OK to behave like children sometimes. Try your best to enjoy your job and be creative in your delivery. Cultivate a hobby.

Mumbai City weather

2011-08-24T13:17:00.006+05:30

Weather in Bombay, Santacruz

Summer - March to May

Summer is the worst time of the year in Mumbai, as the climate will make you sweat a lot. Humidity during summer makes travelling within Mumbai very uncomfortable. Temperature may peak to 35 degrees Celsius making the climate more hot and humid.

Monsoon - June to September.

Monsoon starts in June and is heavy during the months of June, July and Mid August. Some time the heavy rains cause flooding like situation causing Rail, Road and air service disruption. However this is the time of the year which gives Mumbaikars relief from the hot summers that are from March to May.

Winter - November and February.

A moderate winter makes the environment very pleasant. It’s not too cold with temperatures dropping to about 16 degree Celsius.

Climate in Mumbai is humid pretty much all through the year because the city is situated on the coast line.

Ekvira Temple Lonavala

2011-08-22T09:56:00.006+05:30

Distance to Ekvira Temple is

8 KM from Lonavala.

5 KM from Central Point Lonavala (Shivnari Bus stop).

49 KM from Pune (Maharastra).

97 KM from Mumbai (Maharashtra).

It’s a temple for the Koli (Fishermen) community and located on Mumbai-Pune highway. It’s also known as Karla caves.

During festivals (Navarathri and Chaitra), Koli people climb the tall mountain which has man made steps, to reach the temple and worship Aai Ekvira.

Koli tribes offer animal sacrifices in the temple to Aai Ekvira. They offer goats and chickens.

During monsoon season, the mountain is covered with greenery with spurts of water fountains. This place is a popular tourist attraction, especially during monsoon season.

Maharastra and Mumbai Aerial View

2011-07-24T11:20:00.004+05:30

Also Known as Kulaba. Water envelopes this fort at high tide and one cannot walk to this fort.

A Beautiful fort in Sindhudurg distirct. This fort is located at the delta of Vagothan River.

Also Known as Ratangad or Bhagwati fort, the temple of Goddess Bhagwati is located here

The Fort's name is Janjira Mahruba. This fort of Siddis remained undefeated.

Best Picture of all. I love this picture, as it is of a Man of honour who fought for what is right and for his people. Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (The great Maratha).

This fort is the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj

An impregnable island fort near Harnai in Konkan

A small hill fort covering the delta of River Kundalika. A part of Koralai's poplulation speaks Creole

Spread over 11 acres and over 325 feet high, this shrine in Gorai, Mumbai, can house 8,000 devotees for vipasanna.

The Samadhi of Samarth Ramdas is located in this fort. Aurangzeb renamed this as 'Navrastara'

Shivaji Maharaja's son, Sambhaji, was born in the hill fort near Shirval

A fort carved by Rastrakutas, Muhammad Tuglak Shifted his capital from Delhi to Devgiri. Later, it was the capital of Yadavas.

The second capital of Shivaji Maharaj's Swarajya. He was coronated here. Shivaji Maharaj passed away at Raigadh.

A beautiful hill fort located in the Shayadri mountain range between Pawan Maval and Andra Maval

An early morning buzz at Bhaucha Dhakka, a jetty at Mazagaon Dock, Mumbai

These Migratory birds visit Sewri Coast, Mumbai every year

This rugged fort is located amidst thick woods of the Sahyadri Rages. Shivaji Maharaj had taken shelter here while escaping from Siddhi Johar.

The first Capital of Shivaji Maharaj's swarajaya. Located in Gunjan Maval, Shivaji Maharaj ruled from this fort for 24 years.

A secondary fort near Lohgad, Shivaji Maharaj renamed this fort as Sambalgadh. The Bhaje Caves are carved on this hillock

The Siddis built this fort on an island between Khanderi and the mainland

This temple is home to Saptashrungi Devi (Durga Devi). It is located at Vani near Nashik, Maharastra. This place is one of the shakti peeths of India

Shanivarwada was the stately mansion originally built as the residence of Peshvas. The foundation of the mansion was laid by Bajirao 1 in the year 1730 AD and consturction was completed in 1732 AD at the cost of just Rs.16,120.

A hill fort famous for its sheer cliff. There is a bird sanctuary at the foothills of this fort near Pen Panvel

An impregnable fort in the Dolbari range of Sahyadri. Shivji sacked the town of Mulher in 1670 while returning from Surat.

Cries of Pudcha varhsi lavkar ya rent the air as devotees congregate at Mumbai Girgaum Chowpatty as the immerse their beloved Lord Ganesh

Shivaji Maharaj built this fort in the Koyna Valley near Mahableshwar. It was here that he killed Afzal Khan

After conquering Surat, Shivaji Maharaj used the money to build this fort on Kurte island near Malvan, Konkan.

The famous gateway to India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary

An English historian, James Douglas, has written that if Sinhgad is the Lions's Den, then Torna is the Eagle's nest. Shivaji Maharaj renamed this fort as 'Prachandgadh'

Visit to Passport office in Mumbai

2011-06-18T14:50:00.002+05:30

Indian Passport

I already have a passport however since I am married, had to make a passport for my wife. Knowing that the procedure in now online; made me very happy. I applied for the passport online, where basically you will need to furnish all your details on the internet and the online process will help you print out the form with all the details. It will also let you choose an appointment date and time based on the availability.

Fortunately, I got an appointment within 10 days. Myself an wife were very happy seeing that our government procedure has got simplified and now it was only a matter of handing over the form, paying the passport processing fee (Rs.1000), wait for the Police verification and then wait for the passport to come home. Well, the process is correct, but very tedious.

My visit to the passport office.

In Mumbai, the regional passport office at Worli. The official office opening time is 9.30am. My appointment was for 10.15am. Here is what happened.

1. We reached at 9am and saw a huge line outside the passport office.

2. They let us in at 9.45am. Well, not exactly us, they only let my wife in and did not allow me (Husband) to accompany her. My wife is from villages. She was already terrified knowing that she has to face the rude government officials alone.

3. She was asked to stand in queue outside the building. After 1 hour, she was asked to move to another line. Here she stood for 3 hours.

4. After reaching the counter, the clerk rudely told her that she was missing 1 document and that he cannot accept the application. She came out depressed, as after standing in line for 4 hours and they told that her application would not be accepted. Fortunately we were able to arrange for the document immediately and she went in again and submitted the application.

5. This time he accepted it and asked her to go to another counter to pay the money and collect the receipt. Another 1 hour of standing in queue.

Why does the Human right forum not fight for these in-human treatments given to citizens, instead of fight for murders and terrorists?

Why does the government not make provision to automate procedures to make our life easy?

Why do the babus and clerks in government office not behave politely and guide people rudely talk to us. Are they not government servants?

Why there are no adequate facilities for people especially children and women in government offices like water, sitting facility, fans etc.

Well, the answer is that if they make things easy for you, how will they have an opportunity to take bribe in the name of chai pani?

My next step in getting the passport is Police verification. Guess what will happen there?

I wish Anna Hazare is sucessfull with his mission on corruption eradication in India.

Lonavala Bushy Dam

2011-06-16T11:55:00.004+05:30

Bushy Dam is situated in Lonavala. It’s around 92 KM from Mumbai and 62 KM from Pune. It’s around 5 KM from Lonavala Maharashtra State Transport Bus Stand.

Most of the hotels in Lonavala are around 2 to 7 KM from Bushy dam. We were staying at Lion Den hotel which is on Tungarli Road in Lonavala. The best way to reach the Dam is your private car; however you can take local Auto Rickshaws. You may need to bargain in case you feel they are over charging you. The best way to know the correct rate is to ask the Auto Driver or your hotel the distance from where you are to take the Auto and to where you want to go to. Ideally distance within 5 KM should be Rs.100. There are also the big Autos (6 seater) called Tum Tum; they charge Rs.5 to Rs.10 per seat.

Bushy Dam is most popular and exiting place for tourist to visit, especially during the monsoon season as this is the time when the dam overflows. People are allowed to sit in between the over flow, as the water flows down hill. It’s an exciting experience.

To reach the Dam, you would need to cross pool of water which is about 2 feet deep. Ahead of the Dam you can continue walking uphill where you will reach the peak. It’s not very difficult to reach the peak, and the view from the top of this peak is simply enchanting. (Pictures to come soon). Most people stop at the dam but please continue uphill, about 100 meters, you will love it.

All through the way you will see small sheds with people selling hot food items like Wada Pav, Roasted corn (butta), Peanuts, Boiled eggs etc. Try some of these, this way you will help the locals with their lively hood too.

Tips -

1. Wear trekking or sport shoes and NOT slippers or sandals.

2. Old individuals may carry a stick in the hand to give support, or may be supported by a family member.

3. Avoid wearing Sari and tight clothes.

3. If visiting in monsoon season, wear a wind sheeter or a Raincoat instead of an umbrella. This will keep your hands free for ease of balancing.

4. Would suggest ladies travel in groups and not alone as there are some people who come drunk.

5. Carry a camera, preferably a digital camera (not a phone camera). You will regret not carrying a camera when you reach the Dam.

6. Travel in your own car if possible, as the Dam and other places in Lonavala may be far.

7. Do not try to venture too close to the Dam water alone.

Enjoy your experience at Bushy Dam. Next best spot I would suggest is Ekwira Temple which is situated at the tip of huge mountain.

Jokes

2011-05-05T13:09:00.003+05:30

1. Kid Fails in Exam:-
Dad : Hereafter dont call me as your dad..
Kid : Oh, come on dad, it was just a school test not the DNA test.

2. A Fox goies 2 Guiness Book office to check, If he still is the most cunning Animal on earth or not!!
He comes out Angrily Shoting, Who is Suresh Kalmadi?

3. Two Ladies Fighting for a seat in a train. Both claiming they came first.
Conductor - Lady who is more aged should sit here.
Both ladies looked at each other and the seat remained empty.

4. God to a Boy. Ak mannat mango.
Boy - Mujhe unmarried bana do.
God - Mannat ke liye bola hai, jannat ke liye nahi

5. Honeybee said - I am the sweetest in the world.
God laughed and said : Wait, you have not met the person reading this sms.
.
.
.
Moral : God can crack Jokes too !!

6. Today is Wife Day
Always Love Wife
No live without wife
Remain loyal and faithful to wife
Keep wife happy & satisfied.
.
.
Never mind: WHOSE WIFE :-)

7. Ak admi bada sa box leke bus ME ghusa our jor se chillaya "Kabardar, koi apni jgah se nahi hilega"
.
.
.
"Pappu Kulfi wala, khud apke paas ayega"

8. Malika at Airport
Bhikari : Behnji 1 rupiya dedo...
Malika gave him 1000 Rs.
Secretary: Why?
Malika: Pehli baar kisine Behan bola.

9. Point proved
No one is safe in Pakistan...not even Osama Bin Laden.
Everyone is safe in Hindustan....Even Ajmal Kasab!

10. A couple had a fight one night before going to bed.
Husband says : Good night mother of 3 kids.
Wife replied : Good night Father of none of them.

11. A man gifted his wife a diamond necklace on their anniversary and his wife did not speak to him for 1 year.
Why?
What the necklace fake?
No,
That was the deal.

12. A man sitting at home on the varanda with his wife and says " I love you"
Wife : Is this you or Beer talking?
Man replied : Its me talking to the Beer.

13. Two men went to a call girl.
1st went in and came out and said "Na, my wife is better"
2nd went in and came out and said "You are right! your wife is much better"

14. Ek bacha mummy se pitne k baa, Papa kabhi aap jungle gaye ho?
Papa : Nahi beta
Bacha: Phir aap itni khofnaak item kahan se pakad laye...

Malad to Airoli

2011-04-18T10:42:00.000+05:30

I Live in Malad West and have to travel to Mindspace (Close to Airoli Railway station) everyday for work. There are 4 ways I can travel.

1. BEST Bus - From Malad West, I take a bus to Dindoshi Depot. Bus Number 345 takes me to Dindoshi depot. From here, I take AC bus Number 525 which drops me at Airoli Sector 5 (Ticket fare is Rs.40). There are Non AC buses too (Rs.18). After getting down from Bus, there is a shared Auto which takes me to Airoli Station or Mindspace (Rs.5).

2. Local Train - Several buses from where ever you are in Malad will take you to Malad Railway station. From Malad Station take a train to Dadar. From Dadar take a train to Thane. From Thane take a train to Airoli Station. Mindspace is bang opposite Airoli Railway station.

3. Auto – Auto will take you from Malad to Airoli Checknaka (Rs.160). You will have to cross the toll bridge (40 meters, 2 min walking). On the other side of toll bridge take an Auto to Airoli Station or Mindspace (Rs.100).

4. Taxi – Black and yellow taxi (Non AC) will take you directly from Malad to Airoli or Mindspace. It will cost you appx. Rs.350 to 400.

Facts –

1. Mindspace is an SEZ zone.

2. KM from Malad to Airoli and Mindspace is 30 KM.

BUSES : Airoli is well connected by BEST buses. One can reach Mulund / Nahur and Navi Mumbai using BEST bus service. Buses with AS (AC Super) prefixed to their route numbers are air-conditioned (AC) buses. NMMT buses run between Airoli and other parts of Navi Mumbai, Mumbai and Thane.

BEST 500 Airoli Bus Station to Vikhroli Depot Airoli Bridge, Nahur Stn (W), Bhandup Village (W), Cipla

BEST 501 Airoli to Kurla Station (E) Kopar Khairane, Juhu Nagar, Vashi Bridge, Chembur Colony

BEST 509 Millennium Business Park (Mahape) to Maheshwari Udyan Airoli Bridge, Nahur Stn (E), Bhandup Stn (E), Vikhroli Police Stn, Amar Mahal, Sion

BEST 512 Mulund Station (W) to Nerul Nerul Bus Stn, Turbhe Naka, APM Complex, Juhu Nagar, Kopar Khairane, Airoli Bridge, Fortis Hosp, Nirmal Life Style, M.P.Chk

BEST 513 Gavanpada, Mulund (E) to Vashi Railway Station Jui Nagar, Kopar Khairane, Airoli Bridge, Navghar Road

BEST 514 Millennium Business Park (Mahape) to Mulund (W) Nirmal Life Style, Fortis Hosp, Airoli Bridge, Mhape Naka

BEST 520 Airoli Depot to Shivaji Park Kopar Khairane, Jui Nagar, Vashi Brdige, Deonar Depot, Sion, Dadar T.T. - Shivaji Park

BEST 522 Vashi to Marol Depot Juhu Nagar, Kopar Khairane, Airoli Bridge, LBS Marg, Powai, Seepz

BEST 523 Vashi to Dindoshi Vashi Market, Juhu Nagar, Kopar Khairane, Airoli Bridge, LBS Marg, Poway, Seepz, Jay Coach

BEST 525 Vashi to Dindoshi Mhape Naka, Airoli Bridge, Kanjur Village (E), Powai, Seepz, Jay Coach

BEST 545 Airoli to Andheri Station (E) Airoli Bus Stn, Airoli Bridge, Nahur Stn (E), Bhandup Stn (E), Powai, Seepz, Chakala

BEST AS 512 Nerul to Mulund (W) AC Bus - Airoli Bridge

BEST AS 525 Vashi to Dindoshi AC Bus - Mhape Naka, Airoli Bridge, Kanjur Village (E), Powai, Seepz, Jay Coach

BEST AS 551 APMC Vashi to Marol Depot AC Bus - LBS Marg, Powai, Seepz

BEST C 43 Mumbra Station to Rani Laxmibai Chowk Express Bus - Reti Bunder, Kalwa Bridge, Vitava, Airoli Stn (E), Airoli Sector-4, Airoli Sector-5, Airoli Bridge, Kanjur Village (E), Amar Mahal

NMMT 2 Airoli to Thane Thane-Belapur Road

NMMT 7 Airoli to Vashi Railway Station Ghansoli

NMMT 24 Airoli to New Panvel

NMMT 26 Thane to Kharghar Airoli Bus Station, Airoli Sector-4, Airoli Sector-5, Ghansoli, Turbhe, Nerul (LP), Kharghar

NMMT 17 Airoli Sector 10 to Brahmand (Thane) Thane Belapur Road, Ghodbunder Road

NMMT 100 Vashi Railway Station - Gavanpada, Mulund (E) Airoli Bridge

NMMT 123 Kharghar to Borivali Station (E) AC Volvo Bus - Airoli Bridge, LBS Marg, IIT Powai, L&T Signal, Seepz

NMMT 112 Sanpada to Mulund Check Naka

Places of Worship

2011-02-23T15:54:00.003+05:30

Mumbai has a diverse population with people of all culture, states, religion etc. You will find historic holy places of all the religion in this city. The city has a sizable number of beautiful Hindu Temples. A key differentiator for Mumbai in India is the Parsi community or the Zoroastrians. Parsis were driven out of Iran in the 9th Centrury AD and arrived on the ports of Gujarat. There are around 50,000 parsis in the city. One of the famous Parsi agiaries (also known as fire temple) is at Parsi Colony at Cusrow bagh in Colaba. Non Parsi's are forbidden from entering this temple.Mumbai has a sizable number of Muslims. Mohammed Ali road shows a diverse number of mosques and dargahs. The city also boasts of beautiful churches including the St. Thomas Cathedral near Homiman circle, this is the first Anglican church of Mumbai built in 1718.

Mumbadevi temples.
Located in Bhuleshwar in south Mumbai
The name of the city Bombay (now known as Mumbai) is derived from goddess MAA MUMBADEVI.

Siddhivinayak temple
Located at Prabhadevi. This temple is made of white marble and dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This is the most popular temple of Mumbai. This temple is open very early in the morning especially on Tuesday as it is considered as an auspicious day for the Hindus. This is probably the most visited holy place in all of Mumbai.

Afghan Church
Location - Navy Nagar, Colaba.
This church is dedicated to St. John the evangelist. This church was built by the British to commemorate the dead soldiers of the First Afghan war of 1838. This war was a complete debacle as the British suffered heavy causalities. The awesome structure has wide Gothic arches and beautiful stained glass window.

Haji Ali

Located at Worli. This beautiful Mosque is located very close to the cost at Worli. Its on the banks of Arabian sea. The Mosque is literally in the sea and can be reached only during low tide. A narrow causeway is available as a bridge to reach the Mosque during low tide.

BEST Corridor Service

2011-02-20T19:44:00.003+05:30

The BEST Undertaking with a view to rationalize the operational network has introduced the concept of Corridor services. The Undertaking will operate corridor services parallel to suburban rail network. A bus would be available on the corridor service at around every 20 minutes. This concept is adopted by the Undertaking to create convenient nodal points for changeover.

The Major roads for Corridor Service in Suburbs:

1. Western Link Road - Mahim to Dahisar

2. Swami Vivekanand Road - Mahim to Dahisar

3. Western Express Highway - Sion/ Mahim to Mira Road

4. Eastern Express Highway - Sion to Thane

5. Lal Bahadur Shashtri Marg - Sion to Thane

6. V.N. Purav Marg & Y. B. Chavan Marg – Sion to Anushakti Nagar/ Navi Mumbai

The Major roads for Corridor Service in City

1. Mantralaya to Mahim via Worli

2. Colaba To Sion via Dr. Ambedkar Road

3. Colaba to Sion via R.A.Kidwai Road.

The Nodal points for the operation will be Mahim and Sion initially.

Charging of Bus Fares:- On these corridor services the fare will be charged as per ‘Express’ fare structure. The daily bus pass ticket on theses service is Rs.40/- and the monthly bus pass will be Rs.800/-. The holders of these bus passes also have the benefit of traveling in any Ordinary or Limited bus routes in the entire operational area of BEST Undertaking.

At present following routes are operated under this concept:

C-1:

• This route is operated between Backbay Depot, and Domestic Air Port (Santacruz).

• The buses on this route will halt at Backbay Depot, World Trade Centre, Cuffe ParadeMachhimar Nagar, Mantralaya, Church Gate, Marine Lines Railway Station, Pandit Paluskar Chowk, Nana Chowk, V.Naik Chowk (Tardeo), V.Desai Chowk (Haji Ali), Nehru Planetarium, Acharya Atre Chowk (Worli Naka), DoorDarshan, B.Worlikar Chowk (Century Bazar), Siddhivinayak Mandir (Prabhadevi), R.G.Gadkari Chowk, SitalaDevi Temple, Mahim Bus Station, Kala Nagar, Kherwadi Junction, Teachers’s Colony, New Agripada, and Domestic AirPort.

• First Bus from Backbay Depot is at 6:15, and thereafter the buses are available at a frequency of 18-22 minutes. Last bus from Backbay Depot is at 20:10 hrs.

• First Bus from Domestic Air Port is at 7:30 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 21-27 minutes. Last bus from Domestic Air Port is at 22:05 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-2:

• This bus route is operated between Colaba Bus Station, and Shivaji Nagar Depot.

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Colaba Bus Station, Colaba Depot, Dr.S.P.Mukherji Chowk (Museum), Hutatma Chowk/Mumbai University, Mumbai-CST, Mahatma Phule Market (Dn), A.H.Ansari Chowk / New Nagpada, Jijamata Udyan, Sant Jagnade Chowk (Lalbaug), Madkebuwa Chowk (Parel), Kapole Niwas / J.N.Varma Chowk, Maheshwari Udyan, Rani Laxmi Bai Chowk (Sion), Everard Nagar, Priyadarshini, Amar Mahal, Narayan Guru High School, New Gautam Nagar, Shivaji Nagar Junction, Jafri English School, and Shivaji Nagar Depot.

• First bus from Colaba Depot is at 8:25 hrs, thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 18-22 minutes. Last bus from Colaba Bus Station is at 21:10 hrs.

• First Bus from Shivaji Nagar Depot is at 7:00 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 18-22 minutes. Last bus from Shivaji Nagar Depot is at 19:40 hrs.

• The buses are available on all days except Sundays.

C-12:

• This route is operated between Santacruz Depot, and Dahisar Bus Station.

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Santacruz Depot, Mithibai College, JVPD Bus Station, Indian Oil Nagar, Laxmi Industrial Estate, Lokhandwala Complex Junction, Adarsh Nagar, Behram Baug, Goregaon / Oshiwara Depot, Bangur Nagar, Chincholi Bunder Road, Mith Chowkey, Mahavir Nagar Extension, Chiko Wadi, Don Bosco High School, MHB Colony, Yogi Nagar, S.V.P College, Bhakti Palace, Rushi Complex Extn, Dahisar Bridge, Ketki Pada, Dahisar Check Naka, and Dahisar Bus Station.

• First bus from Santacruz Depot is at 5:35 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 24-28 minutes. Last bus from Santacruz Depot is at 20:35 hrs.

• First bus from Dahisar Bus Station is at 8:50 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 24-28 minutes. Last bus from Dahisar Bus Station is at 21:00 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-42:

• This route is operated between Rani Laxmi Chowk (Sion), and Dadlani Park Thane.

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Rani Laxmi Chowk, Priyadarshini, Postal Colony, Chedda Nagar, Ramabai Colony, Godrej Soaps, Vikhroli Police Station, Bhandup Pumping Station, Anand Nagar Police Chowkey, Dnyan Sadhana College, Marathon Chowk, Nitin Company Junction, Cadbury Junction Thane, Majiwada, Kapur Bawdi, Vardhman Garden, Balkum Naka, Ashok Nagar and Dadlani park

• First bus from Rani Laxmi Chowk is at 7:05 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 19-25 minutes. Last bus from Rani Laxmi Chowk is at 20:40 hrs.

• First bus from Dadlani Park Thane is at 7:15hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 19-25 minutes. Last bus from Dadlani Park Thane is at 22:00 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-43

• This route is operated between Rani Laxmibai Chowk (Sion), and Mumbra Police Station.

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Rani Laxmibai Chowk, Everard Nagar, Priyadarshini, Postal Colony, Postal Colony, Amar Mahal, R.T.O Office, Ramabai Colony, Godrej Soap Company, Kannamwar Nagar No.1, Bhandup Pumping Station, Airoli Sector 10, Airoli Sector 5, Sahakar Bazar, Airoli Bus Station, Airoli Railway Station (East), Dighe Gaon, Sathe Nagar, Vitava, Ch,shivaji Hospital, Shivaji Chowk (Kalwa), Kharigaon Naka, Reti Bunder, Mumbra Railway Station, and Mumbra Police Station.

• First bus from Rani Laxmi Chowk is at 6.45 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 23-25 minutes. Last bus from Rani Laxmi Chowk is at 21:05 hrs.

• First bus from Mumbra Police Station is at 6:30 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 23-25 minutes. Last bus from Mumbra Police Station is at 22.50 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-52

• This route is operated between Wadala Depot, and Kalamboli Bus Station.

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Wadala Depot, Sharada Cinema, Dadar Post Office, Khodadad Circle, Maheshwari Udyan, Rani Laxmi Chowk, Everard Nagar, Priyadarshini, Umarshi Bappa Chowk, Chembur Naka, Diamond Garden, Raj kapoor Studio, Deonar Depot, Punjab Wadi, Raj Kapoor Chowk, Agarwadi, Mankhurd Station (North), Maharashtra Nagar, Mankhurd Octrio Naka, Vashi Village, Y.B.Chavan Marg Junction, Sanpada Station, Jui Nagar Station, Nerul Junction, Uran Phata, CBD Belapur Junction, Hiranandani Complex Junction, Gharkool, Kamothe Village, MGM Hospital, Kalamboli Fire Brigade, and Kalamboli Bus Station.

• First bus from Wadala Depot is at 5.15 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 16-26-17 minutes. Last bus from Wadala Depot is at 20:00 hrs.

• First bus from Kalamboli Bus Station is at 6:35hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a

frequency of 16-26-17 minutes. Last bus from Kalamboli Bus Station is at 21.45 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-53

• This route is operated between Ghatkopar Bus Station, and Kalamboli Bus Station.

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Ghatkopar Bus Station, Ramabai Nagar, RTO Office, Shivaji Nagar Junction, Mohite Patil Nagar, Maharashtra Nagar, Vashi Village, Apana Bazar, Vashi Bus Station, SSC Board, BAP Market, Turbhe Junction, Nerul Junction, Uran Phata, CBD Belapur Junction, Hiranandani Complex Junction, Gharkool, Kamothe Village, MGM Hospital, Kalamboli Fire Brigade, and Kalamboli Bus Station.

• First bus from Ghatkopar Bus Station is at 5.55 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 21-23-20 minutes. Last bus from Ghatkopar Bus Station is at 20:05 hrs.

• First bus from Kalamboli Bus Station is at 7:15hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 21-23-20 minutes. Last bus from Kalamboli Bus Station is at 21.45 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-55:

• This route is operated between Bandra Station (West), and Jalwayu Vihar (Kharghar).

• The buses on this route will halt at Bandra Bus Station, Kala Nagar, Dharavi Pila Bungalow, Dharavi Depot, Rani Laxmi Chowk, Everard Nagar, Priyadarshini, Umarshi Bappa Chowk, Chembur Naka, Diamond Garden, Raj Kapoor Studio, Deonar Depot, Punjab Wadi, Raj Kapoor Chowk / Bhabha Hospital, Agarwadi, Mankhurd Railway Station, Maharashtra Nagar, Mankhurd Octroi Post, Vashi Village, Vashi Highway Junction, Vashi Bus Station, Turbhe Naka, Jui Nagar Station, Nerul Naka, Uran Phata, CBD-Belapur, Bharati VidyaPith, Yerla Medical Centre, Shivaji Chowk (Kharghar-8), and Jalwayu Vihar (Kharghar).

• First Bus From Bandra Station (West) is available at 7.15 hrs, thereafter the buses are available at an interval of 30-35 minutes. Last Bus from Bandra Station (West) is at 20:00hrs.

• First Bus From Jalvayu Vihar is at 6:55 hrs, and thereafter the buses are available at an interval of 30-35 minutes. Last bus from Jalvayu Vihar is at 20:15hrs.

• The buses on this route are available on all days.

C-60

• This route is operated between Deonar Depot, and Borivali Station (East).

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Deonar Depot, Punjab Wadi, Raj Kapoor Chowk / Bhabha Hospital, Anushakti Nagar, Agarwadi, Mankhurd Station (North), Mohite Patil Nagar, Shivaji Nagar Junction, RTO Office, Ramabai Nagar, Godrej Soap Company, IIT Market, IIT Main Gate, Punch Kutir, Hiranandani, SEEPZ Village, Green Field, Majas Depot, Jay Coach (SRP Camp), Virwani Estate, Gen.A.K.Vaiday Marg Junction, Dindoshi Bus Station, Pusha Park, Ban Dongari, Dattani park, and Magathane Depot.

• First bus from Deonar Depot is at 5:30 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 25-28 minutes. Last bus from Deonar Depot is at 20:25 hrs.

• First bus from Borivali Station (East) is at 6:50 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 25-28 minutes. Last bus from Borivali Station (East) is at 21.55 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-61

• This route is operated between Mulund Depot, and Mira Road Station (East).

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Mulund Depot, Mulund Station (West), Mulund Check Naka (W) Bus Station, Maharana Pratap Chowk, Marathon Chowk, Nitin Company Junction, Cadbury Junction, Majiwada, Kapur Bawdi, Tatvadnyan Vidyapith, Manpada, Brahmand-Azad Nagar, Patli Pada, Wagh Bill, Vijay Garden, Mruchhala College, Kasar Vadavli, Ovale Village, Kaju Pada, China Bridge, Versova Bridge, Ghodbunder Village, Kashi Mira, Green Lawn Academy, Silver park, S. K. Stone, Shital Garden, and Mira Road Station (East).

• First bus from Mulund Depot is at 4:55 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 23-31-

25 minutes. Last bus from Mulund Depot is at 21:00 hrs.

• First bus from Mira Road Station (East) is at 6:30 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency

of 16-26-17 minutes. Last bus from Mira Road Station (East) is at 22.45 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-62

• This route is operated between Mulund Check Naka (W) Bus Station, and Gorai Depot.

• The buses on this route are scheduled to halt at Mulund Check Naka (W) Bus Station, Maharana Pratap Chowk / R Mall, Rally Wolf, Dr.K.B.Hegdewar Chowk, Mangatram Petrol Pump, Huma Talkies, Gandhi Nagar, IIT Market, Punch Kutir, Hiranandani, Dr.Ambedkar Udyan Powai, Morarji Nagar, Filter Pada, Maroshi Naka, Aarey Market, Goregaon Check Naka No.1, Gen. A. K. Vaidya Marg Junction, Pandurang Wadi, Madina Manzil, Sarvodaya Balika Vidyalaya, Malad Station Road, N.L. High School, Bal Bharati, Kandivali Station 9West), Poisar Depot, Kamal Vijar Sport Complex, Mahavir Nagar (Ext), P.Thakre Market, P. Thakre Nagar Bus Station, Gorai Bridge, and Gorai Depot.

• First bus from Mulund Check Naka (W) Bus Station is at 8:20 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 20-30-21 minutes. Last bus from Mulund Check Naka (W) Bus Station is at 22:00 hrs.

• First bus from Gorai Depot is at 6:35 hrs, and thereafter buses are available at a frequency of 20-30-21 minutes. Last bus from Gorai Depot is at 20.30 hrs.

• The buses are available on all Days.

C-71:

• This route is operated between Mahim Bus Station and Mira Road Station (East).

• The buses on this route will halt at Mahim, Kala Nagar, Kherwadi Junction, Cardinal Gracious School, New Agripada, Hanuman Road, Gundavali (Lions Club), Ismail Yusuf College, Vanrai /MHADA Colony, Virwani Estate, Pushpa Park, BanDongri, Dattani Park, Dahisar Check Naka, Golden Chemicals, Transport Corporation, Kashi Mira, Green Lawn Academy, Silver Park, Jammu & Kashmir Bank, Sheetal Sarovar, and Mira Road Station (East).

• First Bus from Mira Road is available at 7:10 hrs, and thereafter the buses are available at a frequency of 12-15 minutes. Last Bus from Mira Road is at 22:35hrs

• First Bus from Mahim Bus Station is available at 6:00 hrs, and thereafter the buses are available at a frequency of 12-15 minutes. Last Bus from Mahim Bus Station is at 21:15 hrs.

• The buses are available on all days.

C-72:

• This route is operated between Rani Laxmi Chowk and Bhayander Station (East).

• The buses on this route will halt at Rani Laxmi Chowk, Dharavi Depot, Dharavi Pila Bunglow, Kala Nagar, Kherwadi Junction, Cardinal Gracious School, New Agripada, Hanuman Road, Gundavali (Lions Club), Ismail Yusuf College, Vanrai / MHADA Colony, Virwani Estate, Pushpa Park, BanDongri, Dattani Park, Dahisar Check Naka, Golden Chemicals, Transport Corporation, Kashi Mira, Green Lawn Academy, Silver Park, S.K.Stone, Golden Nest, Bhayander Phatak, Ghoddev Junction, and Bhayander Station (East).

• First Bus from Bhayander Station (East) is available at 6:40 hrs, and thereafter the buses are available at a frequency of 17-21 minutes. Last Bus from Bhayander Station (East) is at 22:00hrs

• First Bus from Rani Laxmi Chowk is available at 5:20 hrs, and thereafter the buses are available at a frequency of 17-21 minutes. Last Bus from Rani Laxmi Chowk is at 20:30 hrs.

• The buses are available on all days.

Source BEST Undertaking

Global Vipassana Pagoda, Goria, Malad, Marve, Borivali

2011-01-30T18:15:00.002+05:30

Vipassana : An Art of Living.

The technique of Vipassana meditation as taught by Acharya S.N. Goenka is for one and all. There is no trace of sectarianism or casteism in it. People from all religious faiths and castes can learn Vipassana and benefit from it. There is no conversion into any organized religion.

Vipassana eradicates mental defilements such as anger, hatred, ill will, fear, ego and greed which make us miserable. It helps us to develop selfless love, compassion and good-will, and enables us to live a happy and harmonious life.

There are many Vipassana centers in India and around the world. There are no fees for Vipassan courses, not even for lodge and board. At the end of the course, if one develops the violation to help others, one may donate towards the expenses of future courses.

Those who have taken ten day course in this tradition may meditate in the Grand Meditation hall under the relics of the Buddha at the Global Vipassana Pagoda.

-- Source Handout received at Vipassana Pagoda Goria.

Christmas

2010-12-24T15:31:00.000+05:30

Christmas is celebrated world wide on 25th Dec as it is the Birth day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Mumbai is a cosmopolitan city and 70% people belonging to various religion, having different customs, traditions etc. All the festivals in Mumbai and celebrated with great excitement. During Christmas season, you will see Christmas trees, Santa clause, decoration at all major spots and shopping malls. Since this is holiday time, people come to visit their relatives in Mumbai. Places like Orlem Malad West, Bandra West, Santacruz etc have a large number of Christian population, so you will see most excitement in these places. Christmas celebrations in Virar and Bassein Goan are also very famous.

Christmas mid-night mass is celebrated at Churches all over Mumbai especially in Mahim, Malad, Bandra, Vasai and Virar etc. Thousand of Catholics come to celebrate mass on the night Jesus Christ was born. Celebrations and parties start immediately after the midnight mass which happens on 24th Dec 2010.

Most of the Discos and pubs are jammed packed on 24th Dec night and 31st Dec night. Strict rules like 'No drinking and driving' are observed by Traffic police in Mumbai.

Best spot to buy your Christmas decoration is Abdul Rehman Street and Crawford market in Marine Lines. Here you will get huge variety of decoration and lighting's at reasonable cost.

Have a blast this Chrismas. Wishing you Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2011.

Onion prices may reach Rs100 per kg by month-end

2010-12-21T10:17:00.003+05:30

The onion prices which may have dried the tears of homemakers by now, are all set to break the records of over fifty years.

By December end, experts say, citizens who cannot do without its taste may have to shell out Rs100 for a kilogram of onions.

The prices which were at Rs35-45 a kg rose to Rs60-70 a kg on Sunday in the retail outlets in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.

The wholesale price of the onions has soared to Rs30-60 a kg in the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), Vashi.

In a bid to contain the skyrocketing prices, the Union government has decided to suspend the export of onions till January 15.

The decision to this effect was taken at a meeting of the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) in New Delhi on Monday.

The wholesale dealers of onions in APMC are predicting that the prices will shoot up further. “By December end the prices will be Rs100 per kg as the supply will dip with the depleting stocks,” said Ashok Walunj, director, APMC.

The Vashi market leads the pack in the wholesale trade of onions in the city. The price surge has been attributed to a lower than usual supply from Nashik, which contributes over 80% of onions consumed in Maharashtra.

“Heavy and untimely rains in the onion procurement area ruined the crop and the production has gone down by 70%,” informed Walunj. “NAFED will start retail sale of onions from tomorrow through their own outlets for making onions available to consumers at a reasonable price.”

According to Shankar Patil, a retailer from the Krantisingh Nana Patil Market in Dadar, garlic is also touching its highest price. “It is now sold at Rs320 to Rs350 per kg, but it will go up by at least 20% by the month-end,” he said.

Mangesh Malusare, a vegetable vendor at Nana Chowk, claims that soaring prices of vegetables have brought down the demand. People who bought 2-5 kilograms of a vegetable, now settle for just one kilogram.

“With diesel prices slated to go up, hike in toll taxes and administrative costs already rising, the prices of vegetables will increase further. The consumers would have to no respite for the next couple of months,” said Bal Malkit Singh, managing committee member of All India Motor Transport Congress.

Homemaker Deepika Shah believes that the domestic helpers are the ones who are most affected by the rise in vegetable prices.

“We have two domestic helpers. Since vegetables have become very expensive, I can’t make all kinds of vegetables for them. So, I make do with potatoes, since that is the only vegetable which is relatively low-priced,” said Deepika.

“My family follows Jainism. Hence the rise in prices of underground vegetables like onions, garlic and potatoes doesn’t affect us at all.”

Source DNA 21st Dec 2010

Gold rate in Mumbai

2010-12-17T01:30:00.004+05:30

Gold rate in Bombay, now refered to as Mumbai is the not different from the rest of India. Rate of Gold in Mumbai (Bombay) can be found in any news paper. You may pickup any newspaper from the market of read it on the internet. I check my Gold rate from DNA http://www.dnaindia.com/

Gold rate today

Mumbai Airport

2010-12-07T18:56:00.008+05:30

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport

Formerly known as Sahar International Airport, is one of the main airports of India in Mumbai. This is one of South Asia's busiest airport. The airport is close to Vile Parle and Santa Cruz railway station and is located in the center of the city. There are 2 entrance to the Airport. The Domestic entrance is from SantaCruz East and International entrance is form Andheri East. The Airfield is shared by both Domestic and International Airlines.

Names of International Airlines on Terminal 1

<><><><><><><>

Airline Name	Code
Air Arabia	G9
Air Asia	D7
Air France	AF
Air India	AI
All Nippon	NH
Air Mauritius	MK
Bahrain Air	2B
British Airways	BA
Cathay Pacific	CX
Continental	CO
Delta Airlines	DL
Egypt Air	MS
El Al Israel	LY
Emirates	EK
Ethiopian Airlines	ET
Etihad Airways	EY
Gulf Air	GF
Indian Airlines	IC
Iran Air	IR
Jet Airways	9W
Kenya Airways	KQ
Korean Air	KE
Kuwait Airways	KU
Lufthansa	LH
Malaysian Airlines	MH
Nas Air	XY
Oman Air	WY
Pakistan Intl. Airlines	PK
Qantas Airways	QF
Qatar Airways	QR
Royal Jordanian	RJ
Saudi Arabian Airlines	SV
Singapore Airlines	SQ
South African Airlines	SA
Sri Lankan Airlines	UL
Swiss	LX
Thai Airways	TG
Turkish Airlines	TK
Yemen Air	IY

Names of Domestic Airlines on Terminal 1A

Airline Name	Code
Indian Airlines	IC
Kingfisher Airlines	IT
Kingfisher Red	IT

Names of Domestic Airlines on Terminal 1B

Airline Name	Code
Jet Lite	S2
Go Air	G8
Indigo	6E
Jet Airways	9W
SpiceJet	SG

ATM Facility at Mumbai Airport

Terminal 1B
Arrival Level - State Bank of India

Departure Level - Canara Bank, IDBI Bank & State Bank of India

Terminal 2B
Arrival level - Canara Bank

Terminal 2C
Arrival level - State Bank of India

Pre-paid Taxi

Prepaid Taxi counters are available within the Airport. Befor the exit, there are 2 prepaid taxi counters. Or call 022-44224422 to book a cab.

For travelers who wish to use budget service for reaching destination form the airport, Auto Rickshaw service is available. There is no pre-paid service for Auto Rickshaw. After exit from airport there is a queue for Auto. The Auto's are metered. Passengers need to pay based on the meter reading.

BEST to introduce e-ticketing on buses - Mumbai - DNA

2010-12-06T12:40:00.002+05:30

BEST to introduce e-ticketing on buses - Mumbai - DNA

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking will soon introduce electronic ticketing machines on its buses that will allow commuters to not only issue tickets, but also renew or validate their passes.

OP Gupta, general manager, BEST, said the undertaking was launching the system as pilot project at one depot, which is still to be decided.

Also, they are planning to buy 7,500 electronic machines in a phase-wise manner. About 6-7 lakh pass holders will be issued new card passes for free, he said.

The contract for the new electronic ticketing project includes training in handling the electronic equipment for the BEST employees. In the first six months of the project, the undertaking will create 150 points for the sale of passes.

The service provider, Trimex IT Infrastructure and Services, has been assured a passenger load of at least 30 lakh per day. It will earn 10 paise (tax deducted) on every ticket. However, the earning cap for the service provider is fixed at Rs1.22 crore (tax deducted) per month or 40 lakh commuters per day.

Also, the BEST will take over the operations after completion of five years. The cash handling rights, however, will rest with the undertaking.

Source DNA Mumbai (10th Sep 2010)

BEST, Thane Municipal Transport at war; commuters happy - Mumbai - DNA

2010-12-06T12:16:00.000+05:30

BEST, Thane Municipal Transport at war; commuters happy - Mumbai - DNA

With the Thane Municipal Transport beginning its high-end air-conditioned buses between Thane and Borivli to rival the existing AC services of the BEST, a full-fledged public transport war has begun to woo passengers on the route.

Both the undertakings are running high-end buses on the route. While the BEST is running the Chinese Kinglong buses, the TMT has introduced Tata Marco Polo buses on the route. While the BEST fare is Rs50 for a single trip, the TMT fare is Rs40.

The happiest, in this fight, are the commuters. “More the buses, more the frequency. We can get in the bus which comes early and the wait at the stop will definitely get shorter,” Ajay Shukla, a Borivli resident said.

Transport experts said that both the buses are equal in quality and offer similar facilities. While the BEST had bought Kinglong buses for its proposed bus lanes’ project, the TMT has procured the buses under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission programme.

“Regular and sustained frequency is the key to wooing commuters,” a senior TMT official said. No official spoke on record about the competition.

“We have introduced the bus on this route as we found that there is heavy passenger demand here,” he added, requesting anonymity.

The state transport too runs buses on this route. “They have two types of buses. One is point-to-point and the other halts at all stops,” an MSRTC depot official said.

The BEST has been running buses on the route for nearly a year. BEST officials too refused to say that there was any competition, just said, “Our pass holders will not go anywhere.”

Source DNA Mumbai (6th Dec 2010).

12-car trains from Wadala to Panvel? - Mumbai - DNA

2010-12-06T12:10:00.002+05:30

12-car trains from Wadala to Panvel? - Mumbai - DNA

Commuters between Wadala and Panvel could find trains less crowded, as the Central Railway is rolling out plans to introduce 12-car trains between the two stations.

Introduction of 12-car trains between the sections will increase the carrying capacity by 33%.

Officials said that the plans are at an infant stage and it will be early to confirm or elaborate. While the first 12-car trains will run on the trans-harbour line between Thane and Vashi in the coming week, the next will be the Panvel-Wadala 12-car project, which will start next year.

“It will take time to lengthen platforms and build subsequent infrastructure for the entire harbour line from CST, but it is possible to do so between Wadala and Mankhurd. Beyond Man-khurd, all stations have been upgraded to 12-car ones,” a top official said.

King’s Circle and beyond those on WR can be converted to 12-car ones.

Source - DNA Mumbai. (6th Dec 2010)

Andheri to Borivali

2010-11-25T19:43:00.001+05:30

04:10 S 05:38 S

Mahalaxmi to Andheri

2010-11-25T19:42:00.004+05:30

07:06 S

Lower Parel to Virar

2010-11-25T19:42:00.002+05:30

16:15

Churchgate to Vasai

2010-11-25T19:41:00.007+05:30

07:14 F

Dadar to Borivali

2010-11-25T19:41:00.005+05:30

18:35 F 20:23 F 21:15 F

Mumbai Central to Borivali

2010-11-25T19:41:00.001+05:30

05:25 S 06:32 S 18:13 S

Churchgate to Malad

2010-11-25T19:40:00.005+05:30

10:09 F 10:50 F 11:28 F 21:40 F

10:22 F 11:08 F 11:42 F

Churchgate to Goregoan

2010-11-25T19:40:00.002+05:30

07:31 F 08:11 F 08:46 F 09:09 F

Churchgate to Bhayandar

2010-11-25T19:39:00.002+05:30

05:03 F 10:35 S 12:16 F 15:30 F 18:08 F

08:38 F 10:48 S 13:55 F 15:50 F 18:35 F

09:47 F 11:22 F 15:02 F 16:19 F

Bandra to Virar

2010-11-25T19:38:00.007+05:30

06:55 S 08:08 S 17:20 S 19:55 S

Lower Parel to Virar

2010-11-25T19:38:00.004+05:30

16:15 F

Borivali to Virar

2010-11-25T19:38:00.001+05:30

05:50 S 09:20 S 11:18 S 20:13 S 22:30 S

06:50 S 09:49 S 13:06 S 22:06 S 23:14 S

Dadar to Virar

2010-11-25T19:37:00.008+05:30

05:04 F 10:15 F 13:24 F 15:50 F 17:57 F

07:02 F 10:32DF 14:19DF 16:52 F 19:22 F

07:29 F 12:27 F 14:45 F 17:09 F 21:27 F

07:50 F 12:50 F 15:25 F 17:26 F

Virar to Bandra

2010-11-25T19:37:00.006+05:30

05:30 S 10:35 S 18:36 S

06:50 S 16:03 S 23:21 S

Bandra to Churchgate

2010-11-25T19:37:00.002+05:30

07:35 S 08:57 S 10:11 S 16:26 S 19:22 S

08:04 S 09:18 S 10:33 S 18:19 S

18:29 S 09:46 S 10:55 S 18:59

Vasai to Andheri

2010-11-25T19:36:00.005+05:30

07:46 S 15:19 S 18:27 S 22:10 F

09:10 S 17:10 S 21:13 S 23:02 S

Vasai to Churchgate

2010-11-25T19:36:00.003+05:30

07:18 F 08:20 F 08:44 F

Borivali to Dadar

2010-11-25T19:35:00.007+05:30

17:50 F 08:38 F 19:40 F

Malad to Churchgate

2010-11-25T19:35:00.003+05:30

08:08 F 16:52 F 17:28 F 18:38 F

08:35 F 17:O4 F 17:42 F

Bhayandar to Borivali

2010-11-25T19:35:00.001+05:30

22:52 F

Bhayandar to Andheri

2010-11-25T19:34:00.007+05:30

20:09 20:42 F

Vasai to Borivali

2010-11-25T19:34:00.005+05:30

17:11 S 19:34 S 21:46 S

Vasai to Churchgate

2010-11-25T19:34:00.002+05:30

07:18 F 08:20 F 08:44 F

Bhayandar to Dadar

2010-11-25T19:33:00.004+05:30

09:38 F 15:52 F

Dadar to Vasai

2010-11-25T19:33:00.001+05:30

14:55 F 16:26 F

Vasai to Dadar

2010-11-25T19:32:00.007+05:30

06:01 F 06:48 F 13:11 F

Borivali to Churchgate

2010-11-25T19:32:00.005+05:30

18:41 F 19:30 F 20:33 F 21:44 S 23:01 S

18:44 S 19:37 S 20:36 S 21:46 F 23:08 S

18:46 F 19:44 S 20:39 S 21:53 S 23:17 S

18:53 S 19:49 S 20:44 S 21:59 S 23:24 S

18:57 F 19:57 S 20:51 S 22:00 S 23:32 S

16:59 S 20:00 S 20:54 F 22:04 S 23:38 S

19:03 S 20:03 S 21:04 S 22:10 S 23:51 S

19:06 S 20:10 S 21:07 S 22:22 S 00:01 S

19:10 F 20:12 F 21:10 S 22:29 S 00:18 S

19:13 F 20:14 S 21:18 S 22:35 S 00:30 S

19:15 S 20:17 F 21:25 S 22:39 S

19:21 S 20:23 F 21:36 S 22:47 S

19:27 S 20:28 S 21:41 F 22:55 S

Virar to Borivali

2010-11-25T19:32:00.003+05:30

07:02 S 09:06 S 21:16 S 23:01 S

07:47 S 12:09 S 21:45 S 23:58 S

08:41 S 18:04 S 22:03 S

Goregoan to Churchgate

2010-11-25T19:31:00.002+05:30

08:20 F 09:31 F 17:46 F

09:01 F 09:56 F

Bhayandar to Churchgate

2010-11-25T19:31:00.000+05:30

06:22 F 09:52 F 12:46 F 16:45 F 19:48 F

07:45 F 11:08 F 13:31 F 17:00 F 23:00 F

08:25 F 11:52 F 15:08 F 17:32 F 23:10 F

09:06 L 12:20 S 16:20 F 19:29 F

Virar to Andheri

2010-11-25T19:30:00.005+05:30

05:57 S 09:35 F 12:14 S 17:06 F 22:27 S

06:44 S 10:03 S 13:35 S 19:16 S 22:47 S

07:20 S 11:13 S 13:50 S 2O:27 S 23:06 S

08:16 S 11:23 F 15:36 F 20:45 S 23:50 S

09:26 F 11:49 S 16:00 F 22:08 S

Virar to Dadar

2010-11-25T19:30:00.001+05:30

06.20 F 12:05 F 14:37 F 18:25 F

09:02 F 13:22 F 15:55 F 19:53 F

11:34 F 14:15 F 16:44 F 20:15 F

Churchgate to Bandra

2010-11-25T19:29:00.003+05:30

08:12 S 09:52 S 17:42 S 20:08 S 2l:51 S

08:41 S 10:20 S l7:51 S 20:46 S 22:56 S

09:07 S 15:48 S l8:22 S 21:14 S 00:54 S

09:28 S 16:54 S l8:41 S 21:26 S

Churchgate to Mumbai Central

2010-11-25T19:29:00.000+05:30

10:39 S 11:20 S 21:20 S

10:54 S 11:28 S 21:39 S

Churchgate to Andheri

2010-11-25T19:28:00.002+05:30

05:50 S 09:18 S 12:09 S 17:30 S 19:58 S

07:27 S 09:31 S 12:41 S 17:45 S 20:01 S

07:38 S 09:32 F 13:04 S 17:54 S 20:12 S

07:48 S 09:37 S 14:01 S 18:10 S 20:19 S

07:53 S 09:46 S 14:17 S 18:19 S 20:27 S

08:00 S 09:56 F 14:48 S 18:29 S 20:55 S

08:22 F 10:04 S 15:00 S 18:38 S 21:04 S

08:32 F 10:06 F 15:30 S 18:52 S 21:32 S

08:35 S 10:14 S 16:15 S 19:02 S 22:44 F

08:35 F 10:30 S 16:39 S 19:13 S 22:4J 5

08:53 F 10:33 S 16:46 S 19:17 S 00:01 F

08:56 S 10:45 S 16:54 S 19:30 S

09:02 F 11:00 S 17:01 S 19:34 S

09:11 S 11:14 S 17:06 S 19:42 S

09:12 F 11:52 S 17:16 S 19:51 S

Churchgate to Borivali

2010-11-25T19:27:00.000+05:30

04:27 S 06:35 S 08:16 S 09:40 S 10:57 S

04:40 S 06:45 S 08:25 S 09:41 F 11:03 S

04:52 S 06:49 S 08:29 F 09:43 S 11:10 s

05:05 S 06:49 F 08.38 S 09:44 F 11:12 F

05:20 S 06:58 S 08:44 S 09:49 F 11:17 s

05:27 S 07:06 S 08:46 F 09:51 F 11 19 F

05:32 S 07:11 S 08:47 S 09:55 S 11:24 S

05:35 S 07:17 S 08:53 S 10:01 S 11:32 S

05:46 S 07:23 S 08:57 F 10:07 S 11:42 S

05:56 S 07:30 S 08:59 S 10:10 S 11:49 S

06:04 S 07:35 S 09:04 S 10:17 S 11:55 S

06:10 S 07:41 S 09:15 S 10:27 S 11:58 S

06:12 F 07:45 S 09:21 S 10:32 F 12:05 S

06:16 S 07.56 S 09:23 F 10:36 S 12:12 S

06:29 S 07:58 F 09:25 S 10:42 F 12:13 F

06:32 S 08:05 S 09:29 F 10:42 S 12:16 S

06:32 F 08:09 F 09:34 S 10:51 S 12:19 S

12:24 S 13:45 S 15:17 S 16:57 S 18:16 S

12:28 S 13:49 S 15:17 F 17:O4 F 18:26 F

12:34 S 13:57 S 15:21 S 17:09 S 18:26 S

12:38 S 14:06 S 15:26 S 17:15 F 18:31 F

12:44 S 14:12 F 15:33 S 17:21 S 18:33 S

12:51 S 14:14 S 15:39 S 17:24 F 18:46 F

12:57 S 14:20 S 15:45 S 17:30 F 18:48 S

12:59 F 14;26 S 15:51 S 17:36 S 18:54 F

13:01 S 14:29 S 15:53 F 17:39 L 18:59 S

13:07 S 14:33 S 15:56 S 17:42 F 19:04 F

13:15 S 14:39 S 16:02 S 17:48 S 19:09 S

13:15 F 14:43 S 16:08 S 17:50 F 19:15 F

13:20 S 14:51 S 16:18 S 17:54 F 19:20 S

13:24 S 14:57 S 16:21 S 17:58 S 19:25 F

13:30 S 14:58 F 16:27 S 18:00 F 19:27 S

13:33 S 15:03 S 16:36 S 18:03 s 19:30 F

13:39 S 15:09 S 16:45 S 18:14 F 19:37 S

19:42 F 20:30 F 21:36 S 22:26 F 00:08 S

19:45 S 20:33 S 21:36 F 22:28 S 00:17 S

19:52 F 20:38 S 21:42 S 22:36 S 00:30 S

19:54 S 20:47 F 21:45 S 22:41 S 00:40 S

20:03 F 20:51 S 21:48 S 22:49 S 01:00 S

20:04 S 20:58 S 21:50 F 23:00 S

20:10 F 21:07 F 21:57 S 23:11 S

20:16 S 21:14 F 22:04 S 23:21 S

20:21 F 21:17 S 22:11 S 23:30 S

20:24 S 21:23 S 22:12 F 23:40 S

20:30 S 21:29 S 22:22 S 23:50 S

Churchgate to Virar

2010-11-25T19:25:00.001+05:30

04:15 S 08:49 F 13:03 F 17:19 F 20:53 F

04:59 F 09:05 F 13:23 F 17:37 F 21:07 S

05:51 F 09:26 F 13:43 F 17:57 F 21:25 F

05:25 F 09:35 F 13:52 S 18:07 S 21 32 F

05:34 F 10:01 F 14:20 DF 18:11 F 21:45 F

05:55 F 10:18 F 14:35 F 18:13 L 22:00 F

06:08 F 10:29 F 14:50 F 18:22 F 22:18 F

06:21 F 10:47 F 14:55 F 18:39 F 22:30 F

06:29 F 11:00 F 15:20 F 18:51 F 22:55 F

06:46 F 11:16 F 15:36 S 19:01 F 23:15 F

06:55 F 11:36 F 15:40 F 19:18 F 23:37 F

07:03 F 11:39 S 16:00 F 19:34 F 23:56 S

07:27 F 11:51 F 16:12.F 19:49 F 00:22 S

07:34 F 12:07 F 16:25 F 19:59 F 00:50 S

17:45 F 12:26 F 16:30 F 20:14 F

18:02 F 12:31 S 16:41 F 2O:24 F

18:25 F 12:43 F 16:56 F 20:39 F

Neral to Matheran

2010-11-22T20:43:00.000+05:30

Neral to Matheran

07:30   8:50    10.:15   11:35   17:05
09:30   11:10   12:10    13:35   19:00

Matheran to Neral

07:00   09:45   13:40   14:45   16:25
08:40   11:25   15:20   16:25   18:10

You may also book tickets from http://irctc.co.in/

Mumbai local train timetable

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Mumbai local train - Central

Mumbai local trains - Western

Mumbai local train - Harbour

Neral to Matheran

Old pictures of Mumbai

2010-10-13T20:21:00.002+05:30

Rajabai Tower

The University of Mumbai's most famous landmark. Standing 260 ft tall and endowed with amazing sculptures, it was financed by Cotton entrepreneur and banker Premchand Roychand in the late 19th century.

Mumbai Railway Station

Here comes the train! One of the earliest undated pictures taken of the city's rail system depicts Bombay's commuters doing exactly the same thing in the 19th century as they do in the 21st -- waiting eagerly for next train!

Marine Drive

An evening walk down Marine Drive. This undated picture of Marine Drive shows a Parsi family taking an evening walk down the promenade in the backdrop of Rajabai Tower, the most imposing symbol of Mumbai University.

Mumbai High Court

The British influence is all over the place in this superb picture showing the High Court in the company of the Mumbai University buildings, including the Rajabai Tower.

Churchgate

Churchgate and its surroundings. Can you recognise this place? Well actually, not many can. This fantastic, undated aerial photograph of Churchgate (don't miss the Railway Headquarters building in the foreground) was shot in the late 19th century.

Malabar Hill

The view from Malabar Hill When Lord Elphinstone set up Malabar Hill as the haunt of British nobility, perhaps it was this view that was behind the decision. Surely one of the reasons why Mumbai has such a glorious past.

Catholic Gymkhana, Bombai (1915)

The elegance of Mumbai's club history is exemplified in this late 19th century picture of The Catholic Gymkhana at Marine Lines. The Catholic Gymkhana was considered one of the most elite clubs in Bombay.

Steam Engine Parel

The old engines that you would have seen in Mumbai years ago.

Mumbadevi Temple

Here's how the city got its name. The exquisite Mumbadevi (Goddess Mumba) Temple is featured here in a picture taken in early 20th century.

Queens Road

One of Mumbai's prominent promenades in the 19th Century, Queen's Road was also its most picturesque. Its broad tree-lined avenues would have been a sight to experience.

Beaches of Mumbai

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Mumbai is an island and a costal city. It is surrounded by Arabian Sea. The west coast of Mumbai is exposed to the sea and therefore you will find all the beaches on the western side of Mumbai. Some of the beaches and shore are used by Naval force. General public are not allowed. The beaches for general public and tourist include the Girgaum Chowpatti, Dadar Chowpatti, the Juhu Beach, Versova Beach, Madh Island, Madh Island, Aksa Beach, Manori Beach, Marve Beach, and the Gorai Beach. Since Mumbai is an Island, Beaches have proven to be best place for mumbaikars and tourist for taking timeout of the busy life and relax in the serenety of fresh breeze and sound of waves. Marve beach is one of the place where one can see boats of local fishermen full with fishes. The fishes are brought to the shore for sorting and dispatching to various location in Mumbai and surrounding cities.

Juhu Beach - Located between Vileparle and Santacruz. This beach is streached quite vide and has a varity of vendors selling food item, gift items, children toys, clothing, shoes etc. Juhu beach is close to Vile Parle railway station. Around 3 km. You can take an auto from here to Juhu Beach.

Aksa Beach - Located in Malad West, this is a place which is a favoriet of the flim industry. You will find shotting of flims and TV serials happening quite often at this location. This beach is banned for swimming as there are spots where there is quick sand. It is advised not to venture in the sea at Aksa Beach. From Malad station you may take a bus or Auto to reach this beach. It is around 7 km from Malad West railway station.

Madh Island - Located in Malad West, this place is not a favorite tourist attraction as it is not very popular and mainly a bay for fishermen to get their catch onshore. From Malad station you may take a bus or Auto to reach this beach. Its around 12 km from Malad West station.

Manori Beach - This beach is truely an island. You will need to cross the Marve creek using a boat to reach this place. A good picnic spot. Off late this place has not been prefered by families as you will usally find couples coming here in big numbers. You will need to take a bus or an Auto from Malad west railway Station to reach Marve beach and then take a boat to cross the creek, then you would need to take an auto to reach Manori Beach.

Marve Beach - Very small beach. You will need to take a bus or an Auto from Malad Station to reach Marve beach. Its around 6 km from Malad west station.

Gorai Beach - This is the best place for families. You can take a cottage for a single night and it will cost you around Rs.1000. Its a beautiful place with beach where you can swim. This is considered to be a save beach to swim, however please consult the locals or the local autorities before you decide to take a plung. You will need to take a bus or an Auto from Malad Station to reach Marve beach and then take a boat to cross, then you would need to take an auto to reach Manori Beach.

Mount Mary Bandra Fair

2010-09-13T00:54:00.003+05:30

7 days of excitement at Bandra Fair at Mumbai. This is the feast of the birth of 'Mother Mary'. Celebrated throughout the country. In Mumbai thousand of people come to this celebration at Mount Mary Church Bandra West. There are masses held in the mornings. Devotes need to first pass throught the church by offering flower and candles followed by entering the fair where you have all types of rides, sweets, household items, children toys etc. This year the fair starts from 13th Sep 2011 to 19th Sep 2011.

BASILICA OF OUR LADY OF THE MOUNT

BANDRA, MUMBAI - 400 050

NOVENA AND OCTAVE 2010

Timings of Masses

NOVENA : Friday September 3rd to Saturday September 11th, 2010

Weekdays: 5:30, 6:15, 7:00, 7:45, 8:30 a.m. and 5:30, 6:30, 7.30 p.m.

Sunday, 5 Sept: 5:30, 6:15, 7:00, 7:45 8:30,9:15, 10:00 a.m. & 5:30, 6:30, 7.30 p.m.

NOTE: The Salve Regina will be sung after the 7:00 a.m. Mass.

Proper Day:

WED. 8th Sept.: 5:30, 6:15, 7:00, 7:45, 8:30, 9:15, 10:00 a.m. & 5:30, 6:30, 7.30 p.m.

Feast Masses:

Sunday Sept 12th: 5:30, 6:15, 7:00, 7:45, 8:30,9:15, 10:00, 10:45 a.m. 11:30 a.m.Feast Mass 12:30 p.m. Last Mass No Evening Mass

Octave Week:

Mon. 13th Sept. to Sat. 18th Sept.: 6:15, 7:00, 7:45, 8:30,9:15, 10:00, 10:45 a.m.

Mon.13th Sept.: 10:45 a.m. - Mass for the Sick and Aged. No Evening Mass

Octave Sunday

19th Sept.: 5:30, 6:15, 7:00, 7:45, 8:30,9:15, 10:00, 10:45 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Feast Mass 12:30 p.m. Last Mass

Please Note

Sept. 8th 2010 at 10;00 a.m. - Feast Mass - Bishop Agnelo Gracias

Sept. 12th 2010 at 10:00 a.m. - Feast Mass - Bishop Bosco Penha

Sept. 12th 2010 at 11:30 a.m. - Solemn Feast Mass - Cardinal Oswald Gracias

Sept. 13th 2010 at 10:45 a.m. - Mass for the Sick and Aged - Bishop Percy Fernandez

Sept 19th 2010 at 11:30 A.M. - Solemn Feast Mass - Bishop Ferdinand Fonseca

Mass in Marathi on Wed. 15th Sept 2010 at 11:30 a.m.

Mass in Tamil on Thurs. 16th Sept 2010 at 11:30 a.m.

Mass in Gujarati on Sat. 18th Sept 2010 at 11:30 a.m.

Safety and Health

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Mumbai is one of the major cities of the world. It is the 6th most crowded city in the world. It is also called as 'City of Dream' or 'Sapno ka saher'. For this reason thousands of people migrate from all over India to Mumbai in the hope of finding job or to fullfill their dreams. Some suceed but most donot. Resources are few but people are more. You will see most of the public places crowded, road full with trafic jam, trains heavily crowded.

The unemployed have not option but to resort to stealing, pick pocketing, cheating etc. Mumbai has the biggest slum in all of Asian. Crime rate is high and on the rise. Those who are new Mumbai should follow these simple rules.

1. Try to avoid crowded places.
2. Donot use trains during peak hours. If you really need to travel by train or bus, pay attention to your baggage, wallet, ornaments etc.
3. Avoid speaking with strangers.
4. Avoid eating food from the road side vendors as they may be using adultrated or substandard materials which may make you sick.
5. Females should avoid moving out during odd hours. They should not travel to isolated locations. If possible always be accompanied by a local.
6. Call 100 incase of trouble. This is the phone number of the Mumbai Police. Help will come to you in around 10min (this is my experiance). Know the location you are in when you call this number.
7. Do not involve in any illegal act.
8. Foreginers are advised not to travel alone. Alway be accompanied by local.
9. Wash your hands with soap or disinfectant before eating any thing.

Compared to other cities of India, Mumbai is comparatively safe. This is due to the fact that the city never sleeps. You will find people on the road during any time of the day or night. People are very helpful if you approach them for help. However the above guideliness should be followed so that you may have an enjoyable experiance in world most crowed city.

Thane Auto Rickshaw Tariff card

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Auto Rickshaw Tariff card - Thane in force from 24th June 2010.

Midnight 12:00am to 5:00am (25% additional fare)
complaint toll free number : 1800220110

Click on the image to make it bigger

Videos of Mumbai Life

2010-07-15T13:03:00.003+05:30

The Worlds Largest City - Mumbai

Mumbai Meri Jaan

Train Travel in Mumbai

Mumbai life - Michael Palin travel

Dharavi Mumbai

Mumbai Local Train

Mumbai tujhe salam

Street Food - Mumbai

Mumbai Travel and shopping

Guide to Mumbai

Mumbai Night Life

Bandra Worli Sea Link

Landmarks of Mumbai

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Vankahde Stadium

Gateway Of India

BMC Head office

Central Library

Dadar Flower Market

Dalal Street (Mumbai Stock Exchange)

Dhobi Ghat Mahalakmi

Elaphanta Caves

Haji Ali

Bandra Sky Walk

Small Causes court Bandra

Madh Fort

Hanging Garden Malabar Hill

High Court

Hutatma Chowk

Jogeshwari Caves

Juhu Beach

Mahakali Caves Andheri

Mantralaya

Marine Drive

Rajabai Towers

Siddhi Vinayak Temple (Prabhadevi)

Taj Hotel

New Taj Hotel

Vidhan Bhavan

Flora Fountain Churchgate

Hotels of Mumbai

2010-05-14T11:04:00.107+05:30

Mumbai is the commercial capital of India. Major industries and companies, have their hub here. People come here for holidays or for business. Below is the list of hotels you can choose. These are all 5 Star and 7 Star hotels in Mumbai (previously known as Bombay).

Intercontinental Marine Drive
135 Marine Drive, MumbaiI 400020
Tel:+91-22-39879999 Fax: +91-22-39879600

Intercontinental Lalit
Sahar Airport Road, Mumbai 400059
Tel:+91-22-66992222 Fax: +91-22-66998888

Taj Lands End Band Stand, Bandra (West), Mumbai 400 050
Tel: (91-22) 6668 1234 Fax: (91-22) 6699 4488.
Email: landsend.mumbai@tajhotels.com

Taj President 90,Cuffe Parade,Mumbai - 400 005
Tel: (91-22) 6665 0808 Fax: (91-22) 6665 0303.
Email: president.mumbai@tajhotels.com

Taj Wellington Mews Luxury Residences
33 Nathalal Perekh Marg, Colaba, Mumbai 400 001
Tel: (91 22) 6656 9494 Fax: (91 22) 6656 9595.
Email: twmgm.bom@tajhotels.com

The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower
Apollo Bunder
Mumbai 400 001, India
Tel. : (91-22) 6665 3366 Fax No : (91-22) 66650323 /24.
Email: tmhresv.bom@tajhotels.com

Grand Hyatt
Off Western Express Highway, Santacruz (East),
Mumbai, India 400 055
Tel: +91 22 6676 1234 Fax: +91 22 6676 1235
Email: mumbai.grand@hyatt.com

Hyatt Regency
Sahar Airport Road,
Mumbai, India 400 099
Tel: +91 22 6696 1234 Fax: +91 22 6696 1235
Email: india.reservations@hyatt.com

Ramada Plaza Palm Grove

Juhu Beach,Juhu,Mumbai, 400049

Tel:91-22-26112323 Fax: 91-22-26113682

Oberoi Hotels
Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021,
Tel: +91 22 6632 5757 Fax : +91 22 6632 4142
email : Steven.kalczynski@oberoihotels.com

The Leela Kempinski Sahar Airport Road, Mumbai - 400049
Tel: +91 22 6691 1234 Fax: +91 22 6691 1212
E-Mail:reservations.mumbai@theleela.com

Sun n Sand
Sun-n-Sand Hotel, 39 Juhu Beach, Mumbai - 400 049
Tel: +91-22-6693 8888 Fax: +91-22-2620 2170
Email : reservations@sunnsandhotel.com