Exploration of Narratives Demonstrating Mumbai's Essence in Literature

Mumbai, a bustling metropolis known for its great diversity, is the backdrop for Murzban F. Shroff's latest collection, "Muses over Mumbai." Published by Bloomsbury India, this 252-page book offers a captivating exploration of Mumbai's population, featuring characters from various walks of life, including rich businessmen, bar-owners, advertising entrepreneurs, policemen, servants, slum-dwellers, and dancing girls.

The collection's introduction, "Muses over Mumbai," has sparked debate among readers. Some interpret it as a Luddite protest, while others see it as the heartfelt concern of someone who is an observer and custodian of the soul and the muse of Mumbai. One thing is certain, Murzban Shroff, the author, expresses his disapproval of recent developments in Mumbai, such as highways along the coast and tunnels with roadways.

The collection includes stories based on acute observation, but some may be inspired by incidents from Murzban Shroff's own life. For instance, the horrifying incident described in "Accidental Karma," where a mad taxi driver traps the protagonist's leg in the seat and door of his cab and drags his body along the street, is not included in the collection.

"All That We Own" centers around a rich property-owner's wife who finds a purpose in life by founding a fitness club for the rich, but faces a crisis when the property housing the club is in danger. Another intriguing story is "Hafta: A Price," which follows police constable Tiwari and his friend Sushila, a woman who lives by scavenging through garbage bins and singing in a drunkard's den.

Two stories in the collection reference the attack by Pakistani terrorists on Mumbai in November 2008 and their rampage of killing. One story addresses a diatribe to the murdering terrorists, using verses interspersed with the prose. The second story, titled "Meherunissa," is about a change in one of Murzban Shroff's college friends due to the terrorist assault in Mumbai.

The first story in the collection, "Ruffled Feathers," introduces a variety of residents of a high-rise building, each identified by their ethnicity (Sindhi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Parsi, etc.). The collection, priced at Rs 699, is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Mumbai and its people.

Murzban F. Shroff, the author, is an individual whose specific personal details, including his city of residence, are not publicly disclosed in available information. Despite this, his profound understanding of Mumbai and its inhabitants shines through in his writing.

In conclusion, "Muses over Mumbai" offers a unique and insightful perspective on Mumbai and its people. Whether you are a resident of the city or just a curious reader, this collection is sure to captivate and provoke thought.