A Simple New Year in Mumbai
December 31, 2010
6:30 PM — Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
As Aritra and Katherine Naskar stepped out of the bustling arrival terminal, the humid December air of Mumbai welcomed them like an old friend. The city was alive—taxi drivers calling out to passengers, tourists dragging suitcases, and locals navigating their way through the usual chaos.
Despite their growing global influence, neither Aritra nor Katherine had any interest in extravagant displays of wealth. Dressed in their usual casual attire—jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers, with caps shielding them from unnecessary attention—they looked like any ordinary couple visiting Mumbai for the New Year celebrations.
Katherine stretched her arms lazily, adjusting her black baseball cap. "This city never rests, does it?"
Aritra smirked as he scanned the sea of yellow-black Kaali Peeli taxis lined up near the exit. "Nope. That's Mumbai for you."
She grinned, nudging him playfully. "So, are we taking a private car, or are we going full 'local experience' mode?"
Aritra chuckled and pulled her toward one of the waiting taxis. "We're doing this the Mumbai way. No fancy cars tonight."
---
7:30 PM — The Oberoi, Mumbai
Though Aritra had no interest in grand displays of wealth, he wasn't one to compromise on comfort either. Instead of a flashy penthouse suite, he had chosen The Oberoi, Mumbai, a five-star hotel that was luxurious yet discreet, offering the perfect blend of comfort and privacy.
As they checked in, the receptionist stole a curious glance at them—Aritra, in a plain navy blue T-shirt and well-fitted jeans, and Katherine, in a loose white top tucked into high-waisted denim shorts. They looked nothing like the billionaires they were.
"Welcome to The Oberoi, Mr. and Mrs. Naskar," the receptionist greeted warmly. "Your suite is ready."
Katherine stifled a laugh as they made their way to the elevator. "I think she expected us to arrive in designer suits and evening gowns."
Aritra smirked. "Let them wonder."
The Presidential Suite—their choice for the night—offered a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea, its vast waters shimmering under the city's golden lights. The minimalist yet elegant décor of the room, the plush king-sized bed, and the enormous floor-to-ceiling windows made it the perfect retreat.
Katherine stepped out onto the private balcony, resting her hands on the railing. "The view is stunning."
Aritra came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. "Mumbai looks best at night."
She leaned back into his embrace, savoring the peace before the city's midnight madness began.
---
9:00 PM — Street Food at Girgaon Chowpatty
Despite staying in a five-star hotel, neither of them had any interest in fancy restaurant meals. Instead, they opted for something far more authentic—Mumbai's legendary street food.
Strolling through the lively streets of Girgaon Chowpatty, they blended effortlessly into the crowd, unbothered by the curious glances from passersby. The air was thick with the mouthwatering aromas of sizzling pav bhaji, crispy bhel puri, and freshly fried vada pavs.
"Smell that?" Aritra grinned, nodding toward a small stall where a vendor was skillfully tossing buttered pavs on a hot tawa.
Katherine's eyes widened in excitement. "Tell me that's what we're eating."
"Only if you can handle the spice," he teased.
She rolled her eyes. "Please. I've survived Bengali mustard fish. I think I can handle a little spice."
Minutes later, they stood by a small food cart, devouring steaming hot plates of pav bhaji. The rich, buttery mash of spiced vegetables, paired with soft, fluffy pavs, was a sensory delight.
Katherine took a bite and moaned dramatically. "This is illegal. This is criminally good."
Aritra laughed. "Told you. The best food in India isn't found in five-star hotels—it's right here on the streets."
They continued their walk, sharing a kulfi falooda for dessert, their fingers sticky with melted sweetness.
"Best New Year's Eve dinner ever," Katherine declared.
Aritra grinned. "Wait until you try cutting chai."
---
11:30 PM — Marine Drive: The Queen's Necklace
As the countdown to midnight neared, they made their way to Marine Drive, Mumbai's iconic seaside boulevard. The city's elite might have chosen high-rise terraces or extravagant parties, but Aritra and Katherine preferred something simpler.
They found a quiet spot along the stone ledge facing the Arabian Sea. The entire stretch of Marine Drive was alive—young couples holding hands, families sharing snacks, groups of friends setting up tripods for perfect shots of the upcoming fireworks.
Katherine leaned against Aritra's shoulder, sighing contentedly. "This… this is perfect."
Aritra glanced down at her. "Yeah?"
She nodded. "No champagne towers, no overpriced ballrooms—just the sound of the sea and a city that never sleeps."
He smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of her head. "I knew you'd love it."
She lifted her head slightly, gazing at him with playful eyes. "So, Mr. Naskar, what's your New Year's resolution?"
He thought for a moment, then smirked. "To keep surprising you."
She laughed softly. "I like that."
"And yours?" he asked.
She turned her gaze back to the sea, her voice softer. "To make sure we never lose sight of moments like these—no matter how big the world gets around us."
He reached for her hand, interlocking their fingers. "I promise we won't."
---
11:59 PM — The Countdown
The energy of the crowd built up around them. People stood on their feet, their excitement contagious as the final seconds began to tick down.
"Ten… nine… eight…"
Aritra and Katherine turned to face each other, the fireworks reflecting in their eyes.
"Seven… six… five…"
Katherine grinned. "Ready for another crazy year, Mr. Naskar?"
He smirked. "With you? Always."
"Four… three… two… one…!"
The sky erupted in dazzling colors, a kaleidoscope of reds, blues, golds, and greens lighting up the night. Cheers rang through the air, voices shouting joyfully as Mumbai roared into the new year.
Aritra turned to Katherine, cupping her face gently. "Happy New Year, Mrs. Naskar."
She smiled, her voice barely above a whisper. "Happy New Year, Mr. Naskar."
Their lips met in a soft, unhurried kiss, sealed under the brilliance of the fireworks and the city's endless hum.
As the celebrations roared around them, they sat side by side, their hands intertwined, watching the night sky fill with promises of new beginnings.
And for Aritra and Katherine, this was just the start.