I must say that I’m very interested in how other people live. I want to experience other cultures, learn from them, and expand my way of thinking. Every time I travel, I see the unique aspects of each culture, while also noticing the many similarities we share. It’s a reminder that people are still people everywhere. This teaches me to be more open-minded and to avoid prejudices. On this trip, I wanted to explore the hidden aspects of life that may not be known to everyone, but still have a significant impact on our everyday lives.
Our first stop, aside from Leopold Cafe, was Sassoon Dock. As one of the few open wet docks in Mumbai, it offered a glimpse into the everyday lives of the local fishermen. Arriving around 10 am, we found the fish market already closed, creating a quieter atmosphere that allowed us to observe the fishermen at work.
The vibrant colors that seemed to envelop every aspect of Indian life never failed to amaze me. Even in the midst of manual labor, the way people dressed was a striking reflection of their rich culture.
The fishermen’s labor was truly tough, with no modern luxuries like air conditioning or automation. Every single step of the process was carried out by hand, from moving baskets of fish to crushing ice. Amidst this activity, women and children delicately peeled shrimp, a meticulous task performed on the ground.
Our experience at Sassoon Dock was a humbling reminder of the resilience and hard work that permeated the lives of the people we encountered in Mumbai.
