Political capital of Maharashtra, and commercial capital of
India, Mumbai is many cities in one. As the world's largest
textiles market, a major industrial center and the country's
busiest port handling, it contributes around 50 percent of the
national exchequer.
The
main attraction of Mumbai is ; Gateway of India. The ceremonial arch was built in 1927 to commemorate the visit
of king George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911.
Constructed in honey-coloured basalt, the gateway was designed
by George Wittet, inspired by 16th century Gujarat Style. Mumbai
is well connected by Air, Rail and road to all parts of the
country and other prominent places in the world. The historic
structures are best seen after sunset. Other than the Gateway
of India, places of prominence includes the university
buildings founded by Sir Cowasjee Jehangir Readymoney.
The blue-basalt building of the Mumbai High Court was
designed by Col. J.A.Fuller. Sir J.J School of Art, was built around the same time as the university. Crawford
Market, was built in 1871 by Willam Emerson. The Town
Hall with its Columns and tall Grecian porticos, this
structure has been the foundation of the Literary Society
of Mumbai. Flora Fountain is a busy
five point intersection in the heart of the commercial fort
area. Hutatma Chawk (Martyrs Square) is a memorial
to those who lost their lives in the fight for setting up the
state of Maharastra.
Fort is the older, down town area surrounding the flora fountain. Shivaji Terminus is finest eg. of high Victorian
Gothic architecture. The GPO, adjoining the
VT Station is another Gothic building. Marine Drive, flickering with a thousand lights is a treat to watch.