I live at Mahim and these are the ten most appealing things about my neighbourhood:

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1.     The name ‘Mahim’ is apparently derived from Mahimavati, a Sanskrit word meaning ‘one possessing greatness’. This area has truly proved great for me as I discovered a new life, away from the boring world of financial services after moving here. It’s also the place where my son, Neel, entered our lives after ten years of marriage. So, Mahim has been very lucky for me personally.2.     It is a simple middle-class area and not too noisy—although, Bandra is still close enough in case we want to party.3.     We have a stunning view of Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mahim Bay and Bandra. Sitting at home during evenings, sipping coffee or green tea and watching the sun sink into the Arabian Sea is a rare pleasure. 4.     Since Mahim is one of the seven original islands that made up Mumbai, and not one of the low-lying reclaimed areas, it never floods here. It also helps that we are blessed, I guess, with sturdy sewers. I found it amazing when after walking in chest-high waters on the Western Expressway on 26/07, I reached Mahim and it was just wet, not flooded at all.5.     The area is centrally located—western suburbs, central suburbs and south Mumbai are all equally accessible.6.     There are many shops that are close by, where you can buy almost any daily necessity and more—from vegetables to medicines and fresh bread to screwdrivers!7.     It is a cosmopolitan area. Around us, there are ancient Hindu temples, one of Mumbai’s most important Muslim dargahs, beautiful churches and lovely Parsi baugs. The Lord Shiva temple I visit every Monday is a ten-minute walk away.8.     The airport is a 15-minute drive away. You have no idea how cool that is for early morning flights. And if the radio cab doesn’t show—no problem—a short two-minute walk away is a taxi stand.9.     Beautiful leafy lanes are lined with trees that are at least 100 years old. There are four gardens within walking distance and Shivaji Park is a short drive away.10. Two vintage-style movie theatres are located within walking distance of my home. High Street Phoenix is a 20-minute drive away so watching movies in this neighbourhood is really convenient.