As I traverse the charming bylanes of the nearby neighbourhood of Kala Ghoda, Fort – the art district of Mumbai, a sense of peace takes over. The colonial architecture that surrounds the  neighborhood houses hidden gems; from local fashion maestros to quaint cafes to tiny art galleries to centuries-old shawarma outlets. Which gets me thinking: The city is nothing but a confluence of the old and new in many ways, always leaving you wanting for more. Be it the triple-level coastal highway housing the world's finest cars that’s juxtaposed with the crowded bylanes of Chor Bazaar or Colaba Causeway selling prized antiques and vintage trinkets; or the Michelin-star restaurants that exist beside the humble vada pav stall, a stall that feeds the pulse of the city. Each pocket, each crevice of the city hides a story that tells a tale that leaves you in total awe of the place that Mumbai is.

I then make my way to the neighbourhood I grew up in, Bandra. I settle down in a quiet cafe amongst old Portuguese bungalows. The aroma of fresh organic bread and a spicy cutting chai have me in a trance. I sit by the window and stare out at the dark clouds. It starts pouring – and I relive the magic of Mumbai’s famous monsoons all over again. Curled up with my book, a sweet treat and my special chai, I experience joy like never before.

I then hail my favourite mode of transport in the city – a three-wheeler auto-rickshaw. I always find myself getting a bit philosophical during my beloved auto rides, especially when I move around the small lanes of Bandra: Mumbai is calm and chaotic at the same time. It bullies you and encourages you at the same time. It feels strange but familiar at the same time. It turns you into a hopeless dreamer, at all times.

When you do visit Mumbai, I urge you to not judge it; but live it, savour it and pour your heart out to it – I promise you it will never leave you feeling alone.