Entertainment

Bollywood

Mumbai is not only the country's financial center, but also the proud host of Bollywood, the biggest film producing industry in the world. Films and everything to do with films is BIG here. Cinema halls like Regal and Liberty still carry on with the tradition of lavish premiers while multiplexes like Metro Adlabs, INOX, Fame Adlabs, and IMAX are forever booked for the latest in Hindi and English flicks.

Art

Mumbai also has a thriving art scene. On par with the cultural capital New Delhi, it is always buzzing with exhibitions, book readings, talks, seminars and cultural festivals. Kala Ghoda is a very popular annual art festival that brings together renowned artists from all over the world. The National Center for Performing Arts, Nehru Center, Prithvi Theater and others play host to critically-acclaimed plays and concerts throughout the year. Theater is huge in this city and there are numerous organizations encouraging English, Hindi, Marathi and other regional theater. Art Galleries also thrive at every nook and corner. Jehangir Art Gallery is the most respected name in the Indian art world, while National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Artist's Center, Chemould Gallery and Cymroza are established patrons of contemporary Indian art. These places also encourage interactions with the artists through workshops and lectures.

Shopping

Visitors who've had their share of the busy art scene may explore a number of shopping complexes. Full of malls, arcades, designer shops, flea markets and local vendors, shopping centers sell everything from hairpins to heavy duty appliances. Phoenix Mills mall heads the favorites list. It is a sprawling complex comprising malls, eating places, nightclubs and entertainment arcades. Crossroad specializes in clothes while Heera Panna is a haven for everything electrical. Khadi Gramudyog Bhavan is a trusted name for handicrafts and textiles, and Colaba Causeway not only offers inexpensive cotton wear but stashes hundreds of stalls selling artificial jewelry, souvenirs and interesting nic-nacks.