India is truly incredible! You only have to drop your hang ups and get on to the first train somewhere in India to discover what it has on offer. Yes, our infrastructure is not in place, no our mid level hotels are not up to the mark, agreed we have to rough it out, sure we can get high blood pressure running around even to get simple things organised� but in spite of it all, once we are in the thick of it, it is wonderful, all hassles forgotten.

We are able to discover unique traditions, different people, unbelievable rural living, awesome natural surroundings. At the Pushkar Camel/Cattle Fair in Rajasthan, my senses were so awake to the vibrant atmosphere around me that just looking at the happy colours everywhere was filling me with so much joy. It�s a shame that I did not see a single other Indian up-country person at the Royal Camp where I was spending some time. All other occupants of the tents around me were foreigners.

Bombay is changing. We are of course talking about eating out in Bombay, and its night life. About the way Bombay parties, how it entertains itself, how it celebrates life, how it indulges in good living. In this issue we have brought to you a small chunk of the new emerging Bombay and some of the people who have been and continue to be responsible for the change. Hats off to these entrepreneurs who in spite of the umpteen number of hurdles at every footstep have managed to put Bombay on the gourmet and tourist map. To tell you the truth, I have as much difficulty in keeping up with all the restaurants that are opening as also those that are closing. As for North Bombay � please note, it�s not called the suburbs anymore, it has grown so much it is now a city by itself. I am so afraid of losing touch with the city of my birth, I go on a fam trip to that side of town whenever I am able to create the time. Everything looks so brand new that end, I won�t be surprised if South Bombay will soon be addressed as Old Bombay!

But old is gold and I am happy to be where I am.

Since this issue is all about Bombay, I thought it was appropriate we bring in Nana, the man who didn�t just coin the term �I love Bombay�, but also went on to do his utmost for the city. I have known Nana, Munira and the rest of the Chudasamas for so long now they are like family for me. Besides, I love Bombay too, like mad!

Farzana Contractor