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Karan Kanchan’s Guide to Mumbai

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Mumbai, often known as the “City of Dreams,” is the financial, commercial, and entertainment hub of India. Situated on the west coast, it’s known for its famous landmarks, fast-paced lifestyle, and rich cultural legacy.

The city is also the beating heart of India’s entertainment industry. Bollywood studios and theatres are filled with the passion of aspiring actors and filmmakers seeking their moment in the spotlight. Mumbai’s cultural calendar is also full of vibrant festivals, Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri, which celebrate the city’s diversity and the customs that unite its people.

As part of the latest Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True music Studios, India’s top music producer Karan Kanchan invites DJ MoCity, an Iraqi-born artist, on a comprehensive tour of Mumbai. From the city’s bustling trains and unique eateries, to a very special community project, keep reading to find out how they spent 24 hours in Mumbai.

Stop 1: Nipponzan Myohoji Temple, Worli

The first stop Kanchan takes DJ MoCity to is the place where he goes to count his blessings. A sanctuary of calm and spirituality, the Worli-based Nipponzan Myohoji Temple is part of the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist order and is a symbol of peace and harmony in Mumbai. Its traditional Japanese architecture and peaceful atmosphere provide a break from the bustle of the city, and the surrounding area, along with the spiritual practices practiced there, make it a place for quiet reflection and contemplation amid the vibrant energy of the city.

Karan Kanchan in Mumbai With Ballantine's True Music

Stop 2: Jimmy Boy, Colaba

Following morning prayers, Kanchan and DJ MoCity head to Jimmy Boy in Colaba for some Bun Maska (a popular bread found at Iranian cafes in Mumbai) and chai (tea) for breakfast.

Jimmy Boy is a Colaba eatery that serves traditional Parsi food and transports diners to a bygone era with its nostalgic decor and warm, homely atmosphere.

Stop 3: The Dharavi Dream Project, Dharavi

After finishing their meal, the duo head to a nearby station to catch a train to Dharavi, which is one of the biggest and densest informal settlements in Asia. Although Dharavi is sometimes referred to as a slum, it is important to note that it is a vibrant community with a complex and varied socioeconomic fabric.

Kanchan and MoCity travel to Dharavi to visit the Dharavi Dream Project, an inspiring program that aims to empower young adults from Dharavi. The program’s founder, Dolly Rateshwar, greets the pair and shares the background of the programme, which offers children in Dharavi free music education so they can learn and grow musically regardless of their financial situation.

Karan Kanchan in Mumbai With Ballantine's True Music

Stop 4: Girgaon Chowpatty

Kanchan and MoCity leave Dharavi after spending some quality time together, stopping at the Girgaon Chowpatty to pick up some Indian fast food staples, like pav bhaji, which is a thick, spicy vegetable sauce served with soft dinner rolls.

Just so you know, Girgaon Chowpatty is a famous beachfront area in Mumbai that is well-known for both its lively atmosphere and cultural significance. A lot of vendors set up stalls selling a range of local snacks, like pani puri, vada pav, bhel puri, and pav bhaji. One of the best parts of visiting Mumbai is sampling these treats while taking in the sea breeze.

Stop 5: antiSOCIAL, True Music Studios MUMBAI, Lower Parel

Kanchan and MoCity’s next and final stop is antiSOCIAL, where Kanchan performed his True Music Studios set. “There’s so much energy in the house,” the DJ said. The venue is a popular cultural space and music venue in Mumbai that’s renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. antiSOCIAL serves as a platform for diverse artistic expressions, hosting a wide array of events spanning music, art, film screenings, talks, and performances.

The venue regularly features live music performances spanning various genres, from indie and electronic music to underground and experimental sounds. It serves as a launchpad for emerging artists and provides a stage for both local talents and international acts.

 

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Mumbai has much more to offer than just Kanchan’s favourite spots. In fact, the nightlife of the city is as diverse as the city itself. Some of the best places to spend time with your loved ones are Bonobo, Toto’s, Kitty Su, Soul Fry (best karaoke nights ever), and The Conservatory among others. The city also has some of the best restaurants, including Bizza, Bastian, Gajalee, Bombay Canteen, and The Table.

Among the locations worth seeing during the day are the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Elephanta Caves, Juhu Beach, Pali Hill Road, Haji Ali Dargah, and Nehru Science Centre.

All in all, Mumbai is a city that pulsates with energy 24/7, where every corner tells a story and every moment is a whirlwind of experiences. Despite its challenges, such as crowded spaces, traffic jams, and monsoon floods, Mumbai never loses its spirit; instead, it moves forward with resilience, offering endless opportunities, cultural experiences, and a sense of belonging that makes Mumbai more than just a city.

Watch Karan Kanchan and DJ MoCity spend 24 hours in Delhi below.

True Music Studios

True Music Studios Mumbai

We touched down in Mumbai for an edition of Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music Studios.

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