Experience Mumbai Monsoons with Iconic Locations from Big B's Song Rimjhim Gire Sawan!

With the onset of Monsoon, a rather cordial debate has taken the internet and the roads of Mumbai by storm, as the potholes, uprooted trees on the pavements, and poor infrastructure make a hearty comeback. While some Mumbaikars are busy expressing their dislike for the Monsoons, some romanticise it. The only person who could defy this statement is the Shehenshah of Bollywood, Amitabh Bachchan himself. Why? Well, Big B’s iconic song, ‘Rimjhim Gire Sawan’, sung by the late musical gurus Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar, and composed by R.D. Burman, is a timeless testament to it. This song from the movie Manzil (1979) takes the audience on a musical journey through the city’s various locations. From the crowd-favourite Marine Drive to the UNESCO Grade I structure Oval Maidan, in this article, we embark on an adventure to explore these beautiful locations in Mumbai. Let’s begin, shall we? 

Charni Road or Girgaon Chowpatty

Today, one might struggle to pinpoint the exact location of the song. However, the area shown at 0:13, at the beginning of the song, is Charni Road Chowk. For many, this song now represents a peek into the past, capturing what Mumbai used to be. The closest place to visit is Girgaon Chowpatty or Walkeshwar Road, where one can see the entire stretch of the Chowpatty and the waves crashing against the shoreline. A fun tip: you can sit on one of the benches on the pavement and admire the coastal beauty that is Mumbai.

The Gateway of India

Although the Gateway of India is not visible in the music video, one can identify the location by the walled promenade and the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea. This is one of the most iconic and historically significant places in Mumbai, dating back to when it was called ‘Bombay.’ More than a century old, this heritage structure symbolises the visit of George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai. As a highly popular tourist attraction, the Gateway of India experiences massive foot traffic year-round. However, it is equally mesmerising during the Monsoon season. An interesting fact about the Gateway is that the entire structure can be dismantled and reassembled!

Mantralaya Lane or Madam Cama Road

During the summer, Mantralaya Lane or Madam Cama Road is awash with shades of pink as the Satparni trees bloom fully. However, during the Monsoon, the old heritage bungalows and the lush lane resemble a painting! Though this lane is not a well-known attraction in Mumbai, it is one of the quaint places that reflect the city’s timeless beauty.

Marine Drive

Today, many of us view Marine Drive as a highly romanticised spot in Mumbai; one reason could be the Big B and his infamous song, ‘Rimjhim Gire Sawan.’ Locals flock to Marine Drive for breathtaking sunsets, and its beauty is enhanced during the Monsoons! The Marine Drive depicted in the song looks quite different from what it is today. However, what has remained unchanged over the years is the comfort and nostalgia one feels at this spot.

Oval Maidan, Churchgate

When discussing the Oval Maidan, one can picture the white ensembles and cricket gear. As a Grade I recreational ground, the Oval Maidan is the very soul of South Mumbai, where people of all ages engage in a lively game of cricket. During the Monsoon, the ground is filled with football enthusiasts. In the music video, Moushumi Chatterjee and Amitabh Bachchan are seen walking through the muddy puddles of Oval Maidan, with the Rajabai Clock Tower in the background.

Flora Fountain, Hutatma Chowk

A Gothic piece of art stands strong in Hutatma Chowk, Mumbai. Often overlooked in Mumbai’s history, and a sculptural masterpiece, Flora Fountain now serves primarily as a landmark for directions. The couple in the song is seen crossing through the Chowk, with the fountain visible in the background. Many may not consider Flora Fountain as the most quintessential spot to experience the Monsoon magic in Mumbai, but the eternal actor Big B and Moushumi certainly enjoyed it!