‘I owe my fame to Mumbai’

Rohit Roy, Actor

This city is not just my home; it has given me my work. All the fame, name and status that I enjoy today are entirely due to Mumbai. In my profession, I could perhaps not have got this elsewhere.

But somewhere, in my heart of hearts, I think I am not really a big city person. I find the traffic, the congestion and the long queues at signals a bit stressful. These are things that can easily unsettle one, especially when you are beginning your day. I know that this volume of people is unavoidable in big metros like Delhi and Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore, where countless people make their livelihood out of a daily routine. Perhaps once I retire – whenever that happens – I would love to think of a quiet life somewhere.

There is a lot to say about Mumbai. Much has been said about the city and its spirit, its throbbing energy, welcoming nature and the pulse that keeps it going. All of it is true. Hats off to Mumbai for being what it is.

I really enjoy my Sundays in the city, more than any other day – and that is not because I have time to relax at home, shooting schedules permitting. But on Sundays, when most of the city is resting, the roads are empty. It is a delight then to get out and drive, for pleasure or for work! Or just have a leisurely outing with my family to enjoy the flavours of the city. That is real bliss.

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