In photos: Monsoon magic in Mumbai

mumbai monsoon

The monsoon getaway at the Gateway.
The monsoon getaway at the Gateway. Pic: Himadyuthi Deshpande

Mumbai’s monsoon season is a spectacle of natural beauty and vibrant celebrations. As the dark clouds gather overhead and the first droplets of rain descend, the city undergoes a magical transformation. The monsoon showers bring respite from the scorching summer heat, refreshing the city with their cool embrace.

Monsoon in Mumbai is not just a season, but a celebration in itself. Mumbaikars eagerly wait for the arrival of rains. Children are the most excited to drench themselves in the drizzle, their laughter blending with the sound of the rhythmic pitter-patter.

“Clouds bring with them a lot of rain and I am always excited to play in the rain with my friends”, says little Yuvraj. Pic: Himadyuthi V Deshpande

Umbrellas open up like a vibrant sea of colours, providing shelter from the downpour. 

A market street in Mulund on a rainy evening.
A market street in Mulund on a rainy evening. Pic: Himadyuthi V Deshpande

Streets and markets are filled with colourful displays of these rain accessories, catering to the needs of residents and visitors alike. From street vendors to established shops, Mumbai ensures that everyone can stay dry and protected from the pouring rain.

A stall in Lower Parel selling umbrellas and rain covers.
A stall in Lower Parel selling umbrellas and rain covers. Pic: Himadyuthi V Deshpande

Even amidst heavy rains, the spirit of children and boys remains undeterred as they defy the rain to continue playing with their friends. With enthusiasm, they find joy in the wet and muddy outdoors, proving that not even the rains can dampen their spirits.

A gully cricket match on a rainy day in Vile Parle.
A gully cricket match on a rainy day in Vile Parle. Pic: Himadyuthi V Deshpande

Read more: How normal was the monsoon in Mumbai in 2022?


But it’s not all great always. The seasons is marked with flooded streets, crowded trains, and chaotic traffic but with all the inconveniences, Mumbaikars somehow find ways to overcome them and reach their destinations.

The street connecting the Kanjur Marg Station to the main road.
The street connecting the Kanjur Marg Station to the main road. Pic: Himadyuthi V Deshpande
People have put blocks to walk on to navigate the flooded street next to Kanjur Marg Station.
People have put blocks to walk on to navigate the flooded street next to Kanjur Marg Station. Pic: Himadyuthi V Deshpande

Despite the infrastructure challenges such as waterlogging, floods, potholes, traffic jams and train delays, citizens are required to be resilient for the sake of livelihoods. The resilience, is often called the spirit of Mumbai, and makes the city go on without a break.

A market street on a rainy evening in Mulund West.
A market street on a rainy evening in Mulund West. Pic: Himadyuthi V Deshpande

Whether it’s office-goers, shopkeepers, or street vendors, the city’s inhabitants show an unwavering commitment to their responsibilities, showcasing their indomitable spirit and the ability to keep pushing forward, no matter the weather. And while they do that, they still cherish the magical moments that monsoon brings.

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About Himadyuthi V Deshpande 4 Articles
Himadyuthi Deshpande is an intern with Citizen Matters.